Car insurance response

[saintjohnny]

On Monday (the day of the big snowstorm) I unfortunately slid on ice and pranged the back bumper of a parked, empty car - a hired car as it turned out. I stopped and a mate of the parked car's driver who had seen the bump went to get the driver. I did not admit responsibility but apologised for having slid into his car. The damage was fairly minor - cracked bumper and some paint streaks - probably about �150 worth of damage if that. I gave him my name and address and got on my way. I have had a letter from his insurance company asking for my insurance details. The collision was because of the icy road, not my driving, so I am thinking about not admitting liability due to forces beyond my control. I only have 3rd party insurance and I fear my premium will shoot up. So my questions are: Do I contact my insurance company and let them know? Where do I stand if I refuse to accept responsibilty? Do I contact HIS insurance company saying i am not accepting responsibility?

[Sammy Snake]

It doesn't matter whether it was icy or not - you hit the back of someone else's car. Yes it was an accident but that is exactly what insurance is for.

I don't see how you can refuse to accept liability either, you were seen doing it!

[woozer]

He was stationery - you hit him. There is no argument I am afraid you are legally liable. I dont think it is worth even thinking about arguing - if it goes to court you will lose.
It is a condition of your motor insurance that you advise your insurers. If you fail to do so and later wish to claim because the damage costs more than you think they could get tetchy !
If his damage is inexpensive you could offer to pay for it and tell your insurers for information purposes only. Beware, these types of accident repairs usually cost more than you think. Do not contact his insurers, you may unwittingly say something that prejudices the claim against you.

[saintjohnny]

OK, many thanks for the irritable lecture. Now, would anyone like to answer my questions?

[saintjohnny]

Sorry woozer, that last response was directed at Sammy, not you. Will it be a problem that I have waited 5 days to contact my insurance company?

[Rollo]

Do I contact my insurance company and let them know?

Yes. In fact you should have given this information at the time, as well as your name and address.

Where do I stand if I refuse to accept responsibilty?

Probably you will end up in court.

Do I contact HIS insurance company saying i am not accepting responsibility?

That's up tpo you to decide. But, as said above, you are responsible. How can you not be responsible when you were moving at the time and the other car was parked?

[NORMANTHEDOG]

as there is a witness,i dont see how you can avoid any claim against you.

[woozer]

Its OK S J - its rather hard to answer insurance questions without sounding a bit irritating - I have been doing it for 30 years so have probably got up a lot of noses in my time !!
It isnt too late to tell your insurers - give them a ring - infact you probably would have had trouble getting through over the last week because there have been so many claims du e to the foul weather. Good Luck