HELPDESK: Answering your motoring queries, with MICHAEL McALEER
From PJ:
I was involved in a minor accident recently and it has all turned into a bit of a mess. Initially the driver of the other car said that there was no damage worth talking about but now he has contacted me claiming body damage to his car that I don’t believe could have occurred at the time. Is there anything that can be done? Another driver stopped at the scene and I have his registration details but nothing else.
You need to alert your insurance company and get them to send an assessor to inspect both cars as soon as possible. They should be able to determine if it’s a valid claim or not. You should also seek legal advice and they should be able to trace the witness who could prove invaluable in your defence.
This should serve as a warning to other drivers of the value of collecting information if involved in any crash. Always get the name, address, registration and insurance details of the other party. Also, try and get the name and contact details of witnesses and if at all possible take some photos of the cars before they are moved. That’s easier these days with the popularity of camera phones and a quick snap of a few shots on the scene can prove invaluable later on. It might seem at the time like you are overplaying what might have been a minor prang, but it’s better to be prepared in case of a change of mind by the other party.
From PB:
I am planning on changing my car soon. Driver comfort and easy access in and out of the vehicle is now of paramount importance as I have developed some arthritis in the hips since the purchase of my current car some years ago. Diesel economy is also a necessity because I cover 30,000 miles a year with my work. I will consider anything in the line of a comfortable or roomy saloon, crossover or 4x4 type vehicle. I would look at an automatic option if necessary and cruise control would be useful.
Volvo has one of the most comfortable seats in the business and for that reason, along with its relatively high seating position, it is easy to get in and out. I would suggest you look at something from the small SUV segment. However, you will be looking at about €53,000 to get into the new XC60 with diesel and automatic.
A more affordable proposition would be the Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi auto at €35,000 or else a Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel automatic. Depending on your height, these cars should allow you to get in and out without too much discomfort. Automatics push up the emissions levels, so you are likely to pay a premium in terms of motor tax.
Send your queries to Motors Helpdesk, The Irish Times, Tara Street, Dublin 2, or e-mail motorshelp@irishtimes.com