Car accident / Possible write off

always_sunny

Apologies in advance as I am sure the question is asked all the time...but never had an accident before! My car was [on street] parked in a designated bay and got hit by another vehicle and it is a possible write off. Other driver's car is also a write off.

We exchanged details, insurances, etc - I rang my insurance, they rang theirs, what happens next?

AA towed by car back (I organised it) and my insurance will pick it up, in the meantime an agency (I assume) from their side texted me if I need a replacement vehicle (I don't) and organise repair.

Is there a difference between using my insurance vs theirs? They accepted liability (I was not even in the car).

ConMan

If you use their insurance, there'll be no excess to pay. Your NCD won't be affected whilst the claim is ongoing.

However be aware that if something goes wrong and you wish to complain you won't have rights to complain to the FOS as you're not their customer.

always_sunny

if I go with my insurer, what will be the downside?

ConMan

You'll probably have to pay your excess (although you can reclaim off at fault insurer). Your insurer might actually waive the excess if liability has been accepted.

NCD would be temporarily affected whilst claim is open. Not a major concern if you don't have a renewal coming up soon.

always_sunny

The other driver admitted liability... my car was parked (legally and within marked line) and I wasn't even on the vehicle. I assume my next insurance premium will go up regardless even if I wasn't at fault so in my case whether I use mine or theirs should be pretty much the same then?

stator

Yes, your insurance will go up. ConMan has outlined the pros and cons accurately.

always_sunny

I will use my insurance then since everything is already organised!

oscarward

always_sunny wrote: »

I will use my insurance then since everything is already organised!

just be wary if your insurers try and pass you on to a 3rd party accident management co, some do as a money spinner. This can lead to issues in the future. If you search this forum you'll be forewarned.