Damaged own car: to claim or pay for myself?

My pregnant wife scraped and dented my car's 2 left side doors at the doctor's car park 2 days ago.



It's my policy we'd have to claim on. But I am looking for advice as to whether it is worth putting in a claim.

I have had quotes today for repairing it without claiming - ranging as follows -all incl. VAT

1) £2,300. (of this, £1,100 is parts&paint! Rest is labour/misc.)

2) £866. - the guy thinks he can reshape and repaint it without replacing as many parts, but says it will look good as new.

3) £750 -quote is from same guy as in 2) but would be for a 'green' repair- sourcing and fitting 2good doors from a specialist write-off recycling company.

Our insurance excess with Hastings is £250 voluntary excess plus £95 accidental damage excess =£345 excess in total. (they get you with the acc. damage bit).

We have no claims protection.

Rang Hastings to check if a claim would mean an increase on premiums at time of renewal (7months' time ).

They said it 'could' increase premium but they 'couldn't say for certain'!!!

But it would stay on record for 5years.


most unhelpful When trying to weigh up the figures.

Anyone know any way I can get at the real figures?

So frustrating.

Thanks.