Hi there,
Because he insured Third party only and the accident was his fault, he shouldnt have to pay his excess. Reason being, his insurance company will be paying out the damages for the third party involved, but because it was his fault he wont be able to claim for his own damages and hence wont have an excess to pay.
As the vehicle is written off he can do 1 of two things, either leave the insurance in place until he finds a new vehicle and simply do a change of vehicle. Or cancel the insurance, if he is paying monthly its more than likely done on a finance agreement, so he may well end up owing the insurance company some of the premium.
As you've probably discovered there was probably a 'Voluntary Excess' on his policy (which if he purchased online isnt always made clear when you go on cover).
Let me know if I can be of any further help.
Phil






