What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

…waiting to happen

When I purchased my Mercedes B200 CDI the dealer recommended joining an Accident Management Scheme approved by the manufacturers. They said, in case of an accident, the car would be towed away and my worries would be eased, the service would be free. In view of your recent comments on the subject, if I have an accident, would you advise me to avoid this "Free" service? Your honest comments would be much appreciated.

Asked on 14 March 2010 by NV, Mickleover

Answered by Honest John
I advise you to avoid signing or otherwise agreeing to anything that leaves you liable for the cost of a credit hire car, or forced to attend a court case, if the insurer refuses to pay for the credit hire car. You should also be aware of your contractual duty to your insurer to “mitigate” your costs in any claim, so if an independent gets involved and increases them in any way your insurer or the thirds party’s insurer may refuse to pay.
Similar questions
My car was damaged recently. I contacted my insurance and they gave me two options: claim through them and I would have to pay my excess or go through a claims management company that they deal with at...
You don't advise using a claims management company if there's any potential for dispute after an accident. Why is that? What should one use when there is a dispute over liability?
Our car was hit from behind whilst waiting to turn at a junction. The other motorist was profusely apologetic and accepted liability. Our bumper was squashed and pushed out of shape, parking sensors squished...