Start with the policy: does it cover this incident, and how would the settlement be calculated? Check the relevant settlement basis, limits, excess and repair options in the order the wording requires. Consider what you can afford.

A claim or incident can affect later pricing or a no-claims discount, but the amount is uncertain. Do not invent a future premium increase to make today’s decision look settled. A smaller payment may still be valuable to someone who cannot absorb the loss.

Notifying an incident and seeking a payment are different decisions. Check notification duties and deadlines promptly, even if you might pay for a repair yourself. Do not omit a required report just to preserve a record.