Quote:
Originally Posted by Stingo
Jeez fella - that's a tough one. Is the guy a mate of yours? What I mean is...is he part of your social circle and day to day association if you see what I mean?
If he's not, maybe you will be able to 'disconnect' yourself from him and write a letter explaining how you feel and don't wish to stir up any bad feelings etc etc...but say that the helmet was an expensive purchase for you and that he has offered to replace it (in some form?). Putting things in writing lets him know that he needs to start taking things more seriously and maybe it'll gee him up. Document everything, diary, notepad whatever so that you have a list of when you contacted him.
After the 'friendly' bit you have to get tough. He is running a business. It is possible that his insurance may cover you and/or your stuff (someone will be along in a minute to confirm or deny that)...you will need to send him a letter stating what your intentions are if he does not make good the damage..i.e. replace the helmet, presumably like for like. Your intentions should be something like 'in the hands of my solicitor' or 'small claims court' or 'I'll just shut up and buy a new helmet'. (Edit - you may need to check his small print - is everything of yours on his premises at your own risk? Again, that could be null & void as he himself did it...allegedly!)
You need to look at stark reality - the facts.
Was it your kit?
Was it avoidable?
Did he do it?
Has he said he'll sort it out?
This is all an opinion and is based on something along the lines of what I might do myself in a similar situation. Your best bet is to contact Ed. His avatar is Ed the talking horse...you can't miss it!
Oh and Good luck. Don't let people take you for a ride/walk all over you/drive over your helmet (ouch!!  ) |
Thanks Stingo.
No hes not a mate or someone I know socially - but I cant make up my mind if hes a decent bloke who has got a lot on his plate, or just fobbing me off...
He also spotted my SV for sale and told me about it - hence why I feel a little guilty!
It was my kit, I think it was avoidable if he was looking where he was going, he definately did it, and he said he would sort "something" out - to which I replied, its only 5 days old, and I will expect a like for like replacement, i.e. same model, colour, size and a new one...
With respect to the small claims court - is it really worth it for 200 or so quid, especially as its really my word against his?
Ta Stingo, and I'll try Ed for some help.
Edit - just something I also want to make clear - I havent named him or his company as I honestly think from a training perspective, I would recommend him to anyone, even now - the training was 1st class, and he is a really good instructor. I don't want this issue to be confused with his abilities as an instructor, hence not naming him...