Auto Insurance Claims: car vs tree, baseball size, immovable objects

Question
Hi-I hit a tree on someones property, more near the road. Left a baseball size mark on tree, more damage to my car. will my insurance agency have to contact owners of tree?will pictures of tree and car be enough?

Answer
Hi Lena, I hope you or anyone with you weren't harmed in this loss. Trees can be very strong immovable objects!

As far as inspection of the damages; the insurer will likely want to inspect your car if you are making a claim for repair (if you have collision coverage) and they may contact the tree's owner to see if a property damage claim will be made.

If I were you, I might go by and apologize to the tree's owner and ask them yourself if they would like you to inform the insurer of the damages and desire to make a claim. They may merely shrug it off and be more appreciative of your concern for their property and give you a pass.
Just as a precaution...I would take several photos of the tree and your car from several angles and if possible have them date stamped just in case a situation should arise at a later date. Most phones have the dates in-bedded in the pic.

That's how I would likely handle it....Kinda like; "Due Unto Others".

Hope this answers your question and concern,

Best wishes.

Barrett