My son hit another car - should he go through his insurer or a claims company? | Ask Honest John

My son hit another car - should he go through his insurer or a claims company?

My son drove into the back of another car a week ago, completely his fault. He has fully comprehensive insurance and his car has a smashed headlight, broken bumper and damaged radiator. The other car has a small dent in the boot. He's told his insurance company, who still haven;t contacted him regarding sorting out the repairs. They've now given him the name of a claims management company. Do we have to use the claims company or can we get the repairs done ourselves? He has a £500 excess on his policy, we can fix the car for less than this. They only seem to be interested in giving him a replacement hire car, which he doesn't need.

Asked on 26 September 2017 by Lorraine

Answered by Honest John

If the accident is your son's fault, then they should not be referring you to a claims management company as they are to assist you in claiming when it's someone else's fault. Your son is now making a claim regardless, as the other person will be claiming off him. Unless the car is low value, it would be foolhardy to not have it repaired correctly. Based on what you have said, there is probably well over a thousand pounds worth of damage. You have the right to have your car repaired by whoever you wish. Speak to your insurer again and advise them they have cocked up. Clarify the claims circumstances again with them. Don't use the claims company, use your insurer.

Tags: legal advice insurance claims insurance excess claims management

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