Car Insurance - Liability for third party

[airbolt]

I have comprehensive insurance and was involved in a minor accident at a roundabout. The damage to the other car was minimal but it was my fault.

My Insurance Company sent me a letter stating that I was liable to pay my excess charge , even though it was the third party claiming for their damages. They subsequently said that this wasn't the case and the claim would only result in the loss of two years no-claims bonus. ( BTW Churchill have all the customer relations skills of Santander. I wouldn't renew with them after their adversarial stance in this matter )

So , when I renew my insurance and am asked " Have you made a claim?" what do i answer? Does a claim made against my policy count? Theoritically I still have x years no-claims bonus.

I'm confused about this. Can someone clarify, please?

[JoolsTwo]

Yes, a claim made against you would count. It's a 'NO CLAIMS' bonus. It doesn't matter whether it is a claim made by you for your damage or by a third party for their damage. Your insurance company has had to pay out on your behalf so it counts against you as a claim.

[bednobs]

as far as i know the question is "have you had any accidents ...."

[airbolt]

I thought that if i answer Yes to that question I lose ALL my 9 yrs no-claims -yet churchill keep saying i will only lose 2 years.

Im hoping thelatter is true

[covermacc]

The latter is true. It is a common misconception that you lose ALL your no claims bonus if you have a mishap.

If you've driven 9 years to now without having an accident, chances are, it'll be a few more years before you have another. Insurance companies do not want to penalise people like yourself who generally drive well

[airbolt]

Thanks Covermacc, I certainly appreciate your answer.