Should I agree to settle the damage privately for cash?

While minimal visible damage and an offer of quick cash may be tempting, we normally advise against it. What seems like an easy roadside solution often turns complicated once the true cost of repairs becomes clear.

Roadside offers are usually based on guesswork. We have had clients tell us they were offered as little as £50 to settle on the spot, yet these figures rarely reflect the actual cost of a professional repair. A recent study showed the average repair cost is now £5100, following a 40% increase over the last five years. Between labour, parts, paint, and the recalibration of complex sensors or cameras, even minor repairs quickly run into thousands of pounds

Not all damage is visible. Issues with suspension or components behind the wheel often only come to light during a professional inspection. This is where private deals usually fall apart; the other party may stop responding, choose to go through insurance anyway or insist on the cheapest possible quote using non-genuine parts, which compromises your car’s safety and resale value.

Furthermore, a cash settlement doesn’t account for your transport. If you need a hire vehicle while your car is off the road, the costs and practical responsibility for arranging it fall entirely on you.