What should I do re car insurers?

von

Just over 2 weeks ago someone drove into the back of my car. He admitted full liability and his insurer phoned me to say that they would be dealing with the claim. 2 weeks ago yesterday my car was taken to the garage for them to assess the cost of repair and I picked up a courtesy car. The day after the garage phoned me to let me know the cost of repair and said they would pass their quote to the insurance company and advised me that the insurance company would be in touch with me to let me know whether they would pay for the repair or whether they would write it off. The cost of the repair is about twice the value of the car so I expected them to phone almost immediately to let me know that the car would be written off. So, I've had the courtesy car for over 2 weeks and I still haven't heard from the insurance company and I haven't done anything about finding another car.
My husband said I should contact them to find out what's happening but my feeling is that it's in their hands and they should contact me. The accident wasn't my fault in the first place and I'm not looking forward to trying to find another car as reliable and cheap as the one I had so I'm quite happy driving the courtesy car until they decide to contact me.

My question is should I contact them or should I wait a couple more weeks? (Sorry it's a bit long winded and thanks for reading).

forgotmyname

Yeah i would be thinking you have the car so ignore them. But in the back of my mind would be i hope they have not sent a cheque that has gone walkies and they turn up unexpectedly to collect the car.

If you can risk them just coming to take the car or short notice then carry on using it.
I probably would.

Give them another couple of weeks to get back to you.

How badly damaged was the car? Still driveable if they payout you may want to keep it?

Quentin

From what you say a write off is inevitable.

So make use of the car to source your replacement, then when you have decided on the new car push them to make a decision.

Once they send you the cheque the courtesy csr won't be with you for much longer (a week is the norm), so take advantage whilst you have it.

It's not really your responsibility to chase the third party insurers!

When you find your replacement car check with your insurer thst they will cover it before you buy it.

If they don't like it for any reason you will either have to cancel your policy and take out a new one or choose another car.

von

Thanks for your prompt replies. I don't feel so guilty about having the courtesy car now although I have to admit I didn't feel that guilty anyway, not where an insurance company is concerned. I think I'll start looking for another car and keep a low profile for another couple of weeks to await the inevitable news from the insurance company.

Just one more thing, my car was in immaculate condition and had very low mileage for its year, if the insurers come back with a silly value offer what recourse do I have. Do I have to accept their offer?

Quentin

No. Do your own research into the market value of your car so you know the ball park figure you want, and be prepared to turn a low offer down.