Pls can someone help and advise?!

Alexythimia

Sorry to ask but I am a new driver and got my car only 2 days ago. Today I was driving and to turn around quicker, like an idiot I pulled into a industrial estate. I saw a space to reverse into the entrance where the were big metal gates, so to make more room I got out the car and opened the one gate a bit more. But when I reversed back I missed the gate slowly moving back so when I drove off I heard a scrape, and now I have no door handle on the back door, paint scratches and some of the side plastic panelling has come off.
I’m so gutted about it but I don’t what I’m supposed to do?
Do I tell my insurance? And will that effect my insurance?
I also have 3 months parts and labour with the garage but would they cover that since it was my own stupid fault opening the gate?
Can someone pls give me some advice on what I should be doing as I don’t have anyone I can ask??! Thanks in advance.

Coupon-mad

You need to post this in the motoring section itself, not this parking sub forum.

onlyfoolsandparking

This is a part of the forum where help is available if you have received a parking ticket.


In answer to your question though and having been a driver for over 30 years I can tell you this, you have made a mistake and damaged your car, depending on what policy you have you may or may not be covered for accidental damage, you can ask your insurance if you are covered for this and dependant on the answer make your decision on what to do.


Alternatively you can take it into a reputable garage/ body repair shop and ask for a quote to make good, depending on the cost and if you are covered on insurance take it from there.


Making a claim WILL have an impact on your renewal cost when it is due and there is nothing you can do about that UNLESS you do not make a claim, effect the repairs yourself and accept your mistake, you say your a new driver these things happen could have been much worse and cars can be repaired easily majority of the time.


You would not be covered by the garages 3 month warranty, this is usually only mechanical/electrical faults that occur but as you are a customer of theirs might be well worth asking if they can do the repairs and look after you on price.

fisherjim

It's down to you as 'onlyfoolsandparking' says, you are not obliged to tell your insurers unless you are claiming but if you do it will cost you at the end of the day, even if you don't claim they will log it on your record as a risky driver.


I would pay for it if I were you and put it down to experience and keep quiet.

Alexythimia

Thanks for the advise. I guess il take it to a local garage and see what they say. Thanks for the quick responses.