10 days ago - here in Norway (Stavanger) - a veritable ****** failed to observe the giveway rule at a mini-roundabout. In fact, he never as much looked sideways (here - to the left) even once.
Fortunately (?) I saw him and
almost managed to avoid him. Result, what looked like damage limited to the plastic at the right front corner, plus the headlamp washer (and the tow-bracket was pushing through the bumper). I got hit right between the lights, and both the headlight and foglight were in fact intact ! Car still totally driveable and safe.
However, on taking my now poor battered (6 month old) 1.8 i-
VTEC to the local dealer (the next day), they informed me that several panels \ structural elements were 'marginally' bent (and they were) !
Cost ? - estimated NoK 25,000 - yes, £ 2,500. When the car cost NoK 300,000 - yes, £ 30,000 - new !
Luckily, the other driver 'copped for it', so the entire bill will be covered by my (or his) Insurance and my Insurance no-claims bonus and subsequent premiums won't be affected.
Now comes the
really bad part. I took the car in for repair 3 days ago. The dealer covers Honda \ Citroen \ Hyundai. Guess what - the only available 'loaner' was a Hyundai Getz - ARRGGGHHHH !!!
I now only drive in the dark, or with a ski-mask and sunglasses on. Can't wait until next week, when "baby comes home again".