About 18 months ago I was rear-ended by a van on the way to work. The damage to my car was not extensive and I followed process and reported it to my insurer. They 'appointed' Helphire, who provided me with a vehicle of similar spec while mine was being repaired. They also provided a secondary policy which said I would not be liable for any charges even if the case was lost for some reason.

Anyway, the third party's insurers have refused to pay up - the defendant has even denied liability (his statement seems a bit of a joke, but nonetheless he's attempting to blame me for the collision by denying some of the facts) - and it's ended up at the Small Claims Court.

I have today read with interest your article on credit hire, particularly the 'impecunious' measures. As evidence for the court I was asked, in writing, by the lawyer appointed to my case, if I could have afforded my own hire vehicle. Quite clearly I could have, I am a man of some means, I merely used the Helphire agent as they appeared formally appointed and I am a busy person who felt it beneficial for someone else to handle matters. So I responsed in the affirmative.

Is this likely to affect my secondary insurance with Helphire and I'll be landed with a bill for the hire car? If, for some reason I am pronounced liable in court (I can't see how, I took accident photos the lot, but there's always an outside chance I guess) would this affect my liability for the hire costs?

Thanks

Edited by Squicker on 06/10/2011 at 15:08