Repair or write-off

We wrote a few months ago with regard to the no-fault accident we had with our Laika motorhome in September 2022. You were kind enough to publish our letter.

Now, six months on, we are still no further along. The repair quote was submitted to Aviva, but it still refuses to give us a decision on whether the vehicle will be repaired or written off. We have tried every which way, but are exhaustedly going round in circles chasing Aviva. The latest excuse is that, because motorhomes have greatly increased in price, this multi-million pound company has a £22,000 shortfall in this recovery cost! Until it gives a decision, our hands are tied with regard to further action.

We are advised by the repair company that, even if a decision to repair were made now, it would take eight to 10 months to obtain spares. This all points to 2023 minus a motorhome and might even signal the end of our muchloved freedom of the road. Every month we read MMM magazine with longing!

Six years ago, for our ruby wedding anniversary, we got our motorhome, Ruby, and she was to be our swansong before we felt too old for travelling.

Ruby was our go-to for holidays, short breaks and family reunions.

We are still active but have £80,000 tied up in Ruby, and we don’t have the money for another vehicle or flights and hotels, etc. Even renting is out of the question because, with an outstanding claim, the insurance would be unaffordable.

We wonder why we ever bothered with insurance. It is a legal requirement but, at the point of need, we are entirely at the whim of the insurance company. We wonder if any other readers have had a similar experience and, if so, can they offer some advice?

JL Hamilton