I reversed into my neighbours 1996 BMW 316i.I did not see the car as their car was parked in the centre of the road without any hazards and the vehicle was not in reasonable view for me to see.
The damage is very minimal,just a small dent.They however have got a quote for R11000 when the car only costs about R35000.
I have spoken to my panelbeater and he says that the damage repair will cost about R500.I do have insurance but do not want to calim because of the excess and increase in premiums.
What are my options?Is it my faiult if they were parked in an undemarcated parking zone with no hazzards on?

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Originally Posted by KC123

I reversed into my neighbours 1996 BMW 316i.I did not see the car as their car was parked in the centre of the road without any hazards and the vehicle was not in reasonable view for me to see.
The damage is very minimal,just a small dent.They however have got a quote for R11000 when the car only costs about R35000.
I have spoken to my panelbeater and he says that the damage repair will cost about R500.I do have insurance but do not want to calim because of the excess and increase in premiums.
What are my options?Is it my faiult if they were parked in an undemarcated parking zone with no hazzards on?

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I don't know where you are and I only know US law. However, in the US where the person gets his car repair is not your choice. That's one of the advantages of going through an insurance company. The insurance adjuster KNOWS the cost of repairs and so it is very difficult to inflate a claim.

I don't know how anyone can give you an estimate for the repair without looking at the car - so I have no idea where the R500 figure came from.

You are supposed to be paying attention and not drive into other vehicles, whether they have hazards on. I assume you have backup lights on your vehicle? Why didn't you see the other car?

You also say it was parked in an "undemarcated parking zone" with no lights on - if it was illegally parked you have a very small defense; however, you still can't hit other cars and blame it on the parked car.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by KC123

... They however have got a quote for R11000 ...
I have spoken to my panelbeater and he says that the damage repair will cost about R500. ...

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I agree with Judy. You are at fault.

Tell them about your quote and make them an offer. Although your use of the term (previously unknown to me) "panelbeater" suggests to me that they might want the repairs done in a more reputable manner.

I do love the term "panel beater." I picture a guy with a sledge hammer under the car, pounding out the dent - undoubtedly less expensive than a "real" collision person!

I suspect that the OP is in India, and the prices he quoted are in rupees. To put in perspective - he says the car is worth about $770 USD, that the first repair quote is for $240, and that his "panel beater" can do it for just under $11!

That settles it - I'm moving to India!