Minor car accident - my fault. Do I need to tell insurer?

[iloverhubarb]

I stupidly went into the back of someone today, at about 5mph, had a concentration lapse. We stopped, his car very minor scratch mark in bumper area. Noone hurt. We exchanged names, phone numbers, car reg and I said I hope we wouldn't need to involve insurers as I would prefer to cover any cost if possible. All as pleasant as could be in circs.

I want to avoid losing no claims bonus, and hoping costs will be minor. Of course they may not be or something else may become apparent later. Should I tell insurer anyway, and just make it clear I hope to cover any claim? How does that work? I'm uncertain and would appreciate clarity!

Thanks, will go and have some chocolate now.

The terms and conditions of your policy will almost certainly say that you must report all accidents to your insurer. If they find out later that you did not report an accident to them it could cause a problem.

Thanks prh, you're right. In fact I phoned last night and was told insurers too busy to take details of minor incidents and to phone back!

I've joined this group tonight after noticing it pops up a lot when I have life or mum issues. I was involved in the exact same thing tonight. I was on my way to an evening school concert (im a teacher). The driver said he stalled. There was nothing wrong with his car at all, I even got a wipe out and we 'cleaned' his bumper to check. I was pretty shook up, he asked for my name and address and we went our separate ways. I realised too late I didn't get his details (no insurance details were shared). I'm so stressed out, it was on a busy road and I wasn't thinking straight. I will ring my insurers tomorrow but am worried it will go against me. I'm a single parent and don't need a minor accident on my records. It's hard enough paying petrol. Is it only if he claims against me my insurance is affected? People are telling me not to worry but I know I need to tell them. I'm concerned he has my address too! Aaahh.....