Tell your insurer you don't want the car written off, you want to fix it yourself, and ask them how much they will they contribute? In my view the major damage was caused by the dangerous appendage on the back of the other car. All towbars on cars should be removable, and removed when not in use. But no point even trying to argue that with the insurers. (E.S., later wrote: I spoke to the insurers on the lines you suggested. Repairs to the car will cost £1,800 and the insurer will contribute £1,500. The repair will use genuine Vauxhall parts. All I have to pay is the £300 plus the £200 excess. I am happy with that.)