How necessary is a belly pan?

I haven't had one for years. Hit a deer years back, body shop fixed it up, two years later and out of body shop warranty it slowly fell off piece by piece on the highway. After a moderate pissing match, I was left with the choice of paying for a new one or "riding dirty" without one. I chose the later. No issues to date and oil changed are easier.

I've always believe unless you're mk4 is slam there no need for a skid plate. 300,768 miles later with bilstein/sports h&r cup suspension, most importantly I pay attention to the road and the surroundings.

bajan