Someone scratched my car in a supermarket car park and drove off — should I tell my insurer?

What should you do?

• Photograph the damage and the surrounding area before repairs.
• Ask the supermarket whether CCTV may have captured the incident and act quickly because recordings can be overwritten.
• If another vehicle was involved and the driver did not stop, consider reporting the incident to the police where appropriate.
• Ask your insurer or broker how notification-only incidents are recorded and whether your no-claims discount could be affected if you later claim.

What can make a difference?

The result can depend on your level of cover, exclusions, excess, information given when the policy was arranged or renewed, who was driving, and the precise circumstances. Two policies both described as “comprehensive” can still contain different terms.

Do not assume that a small scratch is too minor to mention. Check your policy wording and, if in doubt, notify your insurer or broker promptly.