According to the AA's insurance wing, hitting or being hit by another vehicle is by far the most common car-park claim, followed by ‘door to panel’ collisions with walls, pillars, trolley shelters or barriers. This can occur due to limited space between cars or reversing into tight spaces with often poor visibility. There are also regular claims for damage from rogue shopping trolleys.
Common light collision damage includes headlight damage, and dents to bumpers, wings and doors.
The cost of the damage can reach up to €1,000 depending on the speed the vehicle was traveling at, the extent of the damage, and whether or not the panel needs replacing. Garages report an average cost of €250 plus VAT for bumper buffs, €350 plus VAT for door dents etc (one panel only), €300 plus VAT for quarter panel dents and €50 plus VAT for mirror covers or complete €150 plus mirror.
The AA notes that 'getting away with it' is no longer so easy, because many car parks now have cctv surveillance, and passers-by can also photograph such incidents.
