Dear Honest John,

2 years ago I hit a pothole. It ripped the tyre wall and buckled the alloy wheel. I reported it to the local authority who said they had no knowledge of the hole so they weren't liable. Fair enough.
The bill to fix the car came to over £600 including the new alloy, a new tyre and the tracking etc. etc. I decided to ask my insurer what would be involved if I were to claim via them. BIG MISTAKE. I was told that if I did claim it would effect the premium when I renew next year (despite having at the time 10 years protected no claims) that plus the excess charge didn't really make it worth it so I swallowed the bill of £600 myself. I have just renewed my policy with the same insurer (Elephant) last week. Today however I received a bill for a further £40.82 for the 'claim' I made 2 years ago, even though I did not pursue it. Just because I made an enquiry I am now classed as a high risk. This has added 15% to my insurance premium and I feel it is frankly outrageous.

Any thoughts on this.

Best regards,

Eddie