to claim or not to claim

cfl78

I had an accident which was my fault. The damage was minimal (scratches to paintwork) but i have a couple of quotes of £350 to fix the other drivers car. (i was advised that the cost on insurance would be nearer £900). My insurance excess is £160, so i am trying to work out if it is worth claiming. I have 5 years protected no claims, but this does not tell me how much this will impact my premiums, or for how long. Can anyone advise how i might calculate this please? I am insured with elephant and cannot switch as they have consistently provided the best cover for my husband who has a medically restricted license.

Help greatly appreciated.

ta

Quentin

The third party may not be happy to have the repairs done at your choice of garage, and the cost may not be just for repairs (eg the third party will be entitled to get a hire car whilst his is off the road, and is there no chance other repairs will be found, or a bit of whiplash turn up?)

If you do some virtual quotes online with and without the claim, you will see what difference this claim will make to your premium.