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We caused minor damage to a car while parking - how is it now apparently £200 to repair?

My wife reversed into another car while parking with practically no damage to the other vehicle. The owner made a big fuss and we took a photo of the so called damage and gave him our name and address. He has phoned to say he has been to a local garage who told him that it needs respraying and would cost £200. Where do we stand and what should we do?

Asked on 2 August 2018 by

Answered by Honest John
Ultimately, you are at fault. You cannot dictate what happens from this point. £200 is cheap. If you agree to pay him yourself, have him place in writing that he accepts this as full and final settlement and waives any right to pursue any future claim against you. Both sign it, and have an independent witness sign it.
Ask to see the written quote and request he obtains a second from another repairer so you can conclude what action to take. You will then be able to establish whether £200 is fair or not.
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