Insurance Query

[LizB99]

Does anyone know if the following would be covered by my (comprehensive) insurance?

I hit a pheasant the other day, unfortunately killing it. However, it seems to have got its own back, as it has flipped up under the car and somehow managed to damage my radiator. The cars still drivable, and I don't seem to be losing any collant, but you can see a fairly large dent at the bootom of the radiator. I've had it checked out, and although ok, its been recommended I consider having a new radiator, as its likely to start leaking in time. I have my no claims protected, so what I'd like to know is if my insurance company may cover this sort of damage?

[JudgeJ]

I would say that it would be covered because it is accidental damage, which your policy should cover. There has to be specific exclusions in order for the Insurance Company to repudiate liability for a claim which would otherwise be covered.

Beware, though, you probably have an "excess" (i.e. a sum which you have to pay in the event of a claim) and this may well approach or exceed the cost of the repairs.

[jake-the-peg]

You also never know what's around the corner - will you loose your protection if you have to claim again?

If (heaven forbid) you work up tomorrow and your car had been stolen would you be without your NCB?

This happened to my wife - it was a stolen radio and it cost us a lot more than having the repair done.

[furrycheeky]

Yes it could be claimed, but it is not worth it to break into your no claim bonus. Especially in most cases a new radiator is not expensive and your excess could be more.

[ianess]

Don't know the age or the type of car you have but if it isn't leaking then you may as well leave it alone. The actual cost to you in terms of excess and NCB hardly make it a worthwhile exercise.....you could hit another pheasant the next day. Maintenance is one thing but in this case if it ain't broke don't fix it. Joys of motoring.