Through my own driver's error I pulled away from a parking spot and damaged my left side from the driver's door on back. I parked next to a Handicapped Spot and for some reason did not see the large, yellow, concrete pole marking the spot at the end. Since my parking spot allowed me to drive straight out, I did...but when I hung a quick left the pole hit my left side, beginning with the side view mirror and ended at the rear wheel well. I was over before I could stop. Garish yellow paint and much body damage to the door. No broken glass but the window won't go down more than half way and the outside lock is so damaged that the it won't open the door. I can open the door from the inside. Side vent is fine as is the mirror. I contacted my insurance company (State Farm) and reported the incident. I have a $250 deductible but am covered for the repairs. While I am awaiting a call from the claim center a few questions have crossed my mind. The car is a '90, Gray with high mileage (137k). The body, however, is, no was, in excellent condition. I'm the second owner and the car has always been garaged. Mechanically the engine is strong, with rebuilt transmission. There are a few niggling problems....one headlight is balky, the AC is currently out, passenger side window is sloooooowww and the head liner needs total replacement. I know the car is not worth that much..probably 3000k before the accident but that is where I need some advice and guidance. The damage looks to me to be substantial and while I will go the authorized body shop tomorrow to get an estimate, what is the chance that the repairs will be more than the value of the car? If the door were replaced there would still be a large dent to the left of the wheel well. The agent told I could buy back the car if I wanted. Maybe I should wait until the estimate but has anyone been here before. Too late to post pictures tonight if that would help I could do it tomorrow. I am willing to ante up the deductible so that's not the issue. Any thoughts?