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Can my insurer refuse to give me back a damaged alloy wheel that's been replaced following an accident?

Following an accident where an alloy and tyre were fitted, I requested if I could have the original wheel back for a spare as I knew it was perfectly okay. The repairers told me to ask the insurers since they would be paying for its disposal. They said no due to legal liabilities, etc. I offered to sign a disclaimer, waiver absolving them and the repairer of any liabilities and pointing out this would save them disposal monies. They still refused. What can I do?

Asked on 31 October 2018 by Graham Newbould

Answered by Honest John
Tell them that the wheel is your property and you demand for it back. It doesn't matter if you want to use it for a paper weight, it is your property. Indemnity is compensation for your financial loss, i.e. the cost of a new wheel, this does not mean they own your old one. The repairers cannot refuse it you back either.
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