Bad luck mate. Save what you can and hopefully you can restore it.
Cheers

Get expert advice. I would pay a solicitor unless you know someone in the automotive insurance industry. The price of a solicitor will save you getting done over by an insurance company. They are masters at screwing people and believe me they will. If it was my car I would want it back fixed by a repairer of my choice. I don't believe they can just write it off unless you agree.

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Chris

Everything I like is either
illegal, immoral or fattening.

Based upon past experiences, I would agree with minimatic and Chris. If I can add my 5 cents worth of advice;

1. Be prepared for the insurance company to make an offer that is no where near what your car is worth to you.

2. With that in mind, remember that when dealing with the insurance company, for them this is just a job. It can only help you to be professional when dealing with them, as it will show them that you won't be an easy push over.

3. Put everything in writing to the insurance company, and keep records of everything (taking photos of your car was an excellent start).

4. Be prepared to bluff. They won't want to go to court any more than you will, as they will also want to avoid expensive lawyers. If it gets to this, be prepared to make a compromise offer at the 11th hour to avoid court.

Good luck with it, and I hope to see a post in a few months time with news that your car is back on the road.

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One should never skimp on the zip ties.