Bike fell over on ferry

[rufusgti]

Just after a bit of advice or opinions on what to expect here really. I recently returned from a trip to the Pyrenees. While on the ferry I was called to the front desk to go down and look at my bike which had fallen over.
They filled in a form and took photos of the damage but weren't really able to advise on what happens next. I'm going to call them up tomorrow and start the ball rolling. Has anyone had any experience with what I can expect to happen? For instance, am I going to have to contact my insurer to chase theirs for any claim, or is this just myself claiming for damage from them. Will they even except liability? They strapped the bike down and told me it was secure. So I'm presuming they are responsible once the ferry is on the move.

Damage consist of a scratched fork leg, bent and damaged touratech pannier, snapped brake lever, scratched and damaged helmet which was clipped to the pannier and a damaged givi screen.

Do I need to contact my insurance first or should I just go ahead and ring them. I don't want to jeopardise any claim and have never had to do this before.

Unfortunately my bike fell or slid into the bike next to mine which caused further damage. I'm just very glad it was an old bike and not my pride and joy.

Thanks for any advise.

[rufusgti]

toxgobbler said:

was it strapped down? If the strapping failed that might imply negligence, sorry to hear.

This might give some help: http://www.bikelawyer.co.uk/mcn-law-columns/damage...

The bike was strapped down with a big pad over the seat and a ratchet. I asked if he thought it was leant on its stand enough, I thought it looked too upright, but the ferry worker shrugged and said it was fine.