Using garage's insurance instead of our own...

dacouch

Do you have the other drivers details, if so ring him/her and ask them if they want to sort it privately or you could try going direct toi the other Insurer if they have reported it to them

lisyloo

What's the problem with having a slightly dented bumper?!?!?

Well you'd need to ask the experts, but it's there to protect the car in an impact, so it's possible that your impact protection has been compromised.

It's also possible that it might be spotted on a sale (RAC inspection?) and then your resale value has been compromised.

You might want to clarify this before deciding what to do.

Quentin

Lisyloo is right!

Don't go on it's appearance.

There may be crumple zones/energy absorbers in the construction of the bumper which have saved any major damage to your cars structure.

If you have another impact on the same area, then the bumper won't be able to do its job properly, and the impact can then carry on through the car, possibly buckling the boot floor etc.

The only downside for you in this whole incident is having it on your history, and it is there now anyway, but by not having the repair done you run the risk of devaluing your car, having a more expensive repair next time it happens, and letting the idiot who smacked into you off scot free!

john_s_2

We've decided to go through our own insurers. I'm following my gut instinct.

You're right about the possible compromise to the bumper's efficiacy (I think that's the word?)

If we left it unrepaired I would bring this to the attention of any future buyer. I like to think I'm honest.

Quentin

lisyloo wrote: »

I'm genuinely trying to bring something genuine to the attention of the OP that might be useful. By highlighting the worst case scenario ....................................
My husband didn't have to do this when he claimed off me.
Repairs were paid direct and so was car hire.
Perhaps different companies behave differently but Lloyds TSB paid everything direct to the garage/car hire company and we paid nothing.

Your use of the worst case scenario is just what I said you were doing, so hardly being harsh?

Your anecdote about your spouse claiming off you isn't typical at all.

Some third party insurers will act "nicely" like this. This is usually to try and prevent injured parties using a claim handler to get them their compensation, as if they can step in quickly, there is a good chance the injured party is so relieved to know there is no battle ahead, they go with the flow and maybe miss out on the full compensation they may be entitled to for their uninsured losses and personal injury etc.

The majority of insurers won't give instructions to garages on behalf of the injured third party, and do only pay up after repairs are completed, paid for and the receipt submitted. All this takes time, which can be avoided by using a claim handler, who have ways and means to get insurance companies moving!

Quentin

john_s wrote: »

We've decided to go through our own insurers.

Good decision (to get it repaired).

If you need any advice on getting your uninsured losses (car hire, excess, loss of earnings, inconvenience, etc.) reimbursed fire away!

john_s_2

Quentin wrote: »

If you need any advice on getting your uninsured losses (car hire, excess, loss of earnings, inconvenience, etc.) reimbursed fire away!

Thanks for that. To be honest, I'd be happier if everyone just pledged to keep their eyes on the road instead of their satnavs!