A driver who admitted fault in an accident now won't pay my repairs - what do I do? | Ask Honest John

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A driver who admitted fault in an accident now won't pay my repairs - what do I do?

I've been passed my test just under one year and I've had my new car for three weeks. Last week, I was stationary when someone else hit me from behind. The other driver claimed responsibility straight away and assured me she would have my car fixed. She wanted to pay privately and not go through insurance companies. I work for a Vauxhall garage so got a quote from our bodyshop as I need a new back bumper, x bar and number plate costing £700. The other driver is now saying she thinks it's a bit much and wants to consult a family member who is a mechanic in another town. I'm now starting to worry that she will not pay to have it fixed or that she will make me go to her family member when he is not Vauxhall approved. What should I do? I've not called my insurance company as I'm afraid of having to pay as my excess is high.

Asked on 27 April 2017 by Becca

Answered by Honest John

Ask the other party for her insurance details, she has to give them to you by law. Then either go through a regulated accident management company, or possibly through the other parties insurers directly. That way you should not pay any excess or involve your insurers. You will need to notify them you have been involved in an incident though when your renew. Insist it goes to the Vauxhall garage where you work. Ask your bodyshop manager what accident management company they use. I would not even bother dealing with the other driver, as they will have no idea what it actually costs to get your car repaired.

Tags: insurance excess insurance accident claims accident repairs accident management bodywork accident damage new drivers consumer advice

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