Non-payout after 7 months!!!

I was involved in an accident with my car in July 2014. The other driver straight away admitted it was his fault and asked if he could pay me directly for the damage. The amount was about R35 000 so Zurich suggested I pay them the excess and they then handle the entire process and once payment is received will they pay the excess back to me. This, according to them was so that they can fight with panel beaters on my behalf if there are problems with the repairs.<br> <br> It is now almost 8 months later and I am yet to get any feedback from Zurich about this claim, I have followed up with the broker they deal with about 10 times and still nothing. Their broken just kept telling me Zurich is still investigating, phoning Zurich directly gave the same result.<br> <br> I have since cancelled my insurance with Zurich but as a principle, I would use this to warn others about this.