Understanding Non-Fault Accident Claims
When you’re involved in a road accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s known as a “non-fault accident.” In simple terms, this means another person was responsible for causing the crash, and you did not contribute to it. Understanding what this means for your insurance claim can help you make informed decisions and protect your rights.
What Is a Non-Fault Accident?
A non-fault accident occurs when your insurer can recover all costs from the person who was at fault (or their insurer). For example, if another driver runs a red light and hits your car, they are considered at fault. Your own driving record remains unaffected, and your insurer should be able to claim back any money paid out for repairs or other losses.
How Does It Affect Your Insurance Claim?
Even if you’re not at fault, you should still report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Your claim will be processed, and your insurer will usually seek to recover costs from the other party’s insurer. If the other driver admits fault or there is clear evidence (like dashcam footage or witness statements), the process is often quicker.
It’s important to know that making a non-fault claim doesn’t always mean your no-claims bonus is protected automatically. Check your policy details, as some insurers may reduce your bonus until they recover the full costs, then reinstate it. Always ask your insurer how a non-fault claim will affect your policy.
Your Rights After a Non-Fault Accident
When you’re not responsible for the accident, you have several important rights:
Repair or Replacement: You’re entitled to have your vehicle repaired or replaced to its pre-accident condition.
Courtesy Car: You may be offered a courtesy car while yours is being repaired.
Compensation: You can claim for losses such as personal injury, lost earnings, or damaged belongings.
Choice of Repairer: In many cases, you can choose where your car is repaired, not just the garage your insurer suggests.
You also have the right to expect your insurer to handle your claim efficiently and to keep you informed throughout the process. If you’re unsure about your rights or feel your insurer isn’t acting fairly, you can contact the Financial Ombudsman Service for help.
Why Making a Claim Still Matters
It’s a common misconception that you don’t need to make a claim if the accident wasn’t your fault. In reality, making a claim is crucial for several reasons:
Protecting Yourself: Reporting the accident ensures your version of events is recorded and helps prevent disputes later.
Covering Costs: Even if the other driver is clearly at fault, you may need immediate repairs or medical treatment. Your insurer can help you get back on the road quickly.
Legal Requirements: Most insurance policies require you to inform your provider of any accident, regardless of fault.
Making a claim also helps you access benefits such as legal advice and support with recovering uninsured losses.
For a broader overview of how the claims process works, you can read more about making a claim under vehicle insurance. This will give you a clearer picture of what to expect, whether you’re at fault or not.
Understanding your position in a non-fault accident puts you in control and helps ensure you receive the support and compensation you deserve. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to speak to your insurer or seek independent legal advice.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident
Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident
If you’ve been involved in a road accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s important to act quickly and calmly. Taking the right steps straight away can help protect your safety, support your insurance claim, and ensure you’re following UK legal requirements. Here’s what you should do:
1. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
First, check yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 999 for emergency assistance right away. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s best to get checked by a medical professional, as some symptoms may appear later.
2. Move to a Safe Place (If Possible)
If the vehicles are causing a hazard and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you can’t move your vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
3. Exchange Information with the Other Party
UK law requires you to exchange certain details after an accident. Collect the following from all drivers involved:
Name and address
Contact number
Insurance company name and policy number
Vehicle registration number
Make, model, and colour of the vehicles
If the other driver refuses to provide their information, or if you suspect they are uninsured or under the influence, inform the police.
4. Take Photos and Gather Evidence
Collect as much evidence as possible at the scene. Use your phone to take clear photos of:
Vehicle damage (all angles)
The accident location, including road signs, markings, and positions of vehicles
Any skid marks or debris
The other driver’s number plate
If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact details. Their statements may support your claim later.
5. Report the Accident to the Police if Necessary
You must report the accident to the police within 24 hours if:
Someone is injured
The other driver leaves the scene without providing details (hit and run)
You suspect the other party is uninsured or has committed a driving offence
Failing to report when required could result in penalties.
6. Notify Your Insurer Promptly
Even if the accident wasn’t your fault and you don’t intend to claim on your own policy, you should still inform your insurer as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details and evidence you’ve collected. This protects you if the other party makes a claim or if your policy requires notification to remain valid.
For more general advice on what to do after any accident, see our guide on making a claim if you’re in an accident.
By following these steps, you’ll be in the best position to make a successful claim and ensure your legal obligations are met. Remember, staying calm and gathering the right information at the scene can make the process much smoother.
How to Report the Accident to Your Insurer
When you’ve been involved in a road accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s important to report the incident to your insurer as soon as possible – even if you don’t intend to make a claim on your own policy. Prompt and accurate reporting helps protect your rights and ensures the claims process goes smoothly.
What Information Will Your Insurer Need?
When contacting your insurance company, have the following details ready:
Your policy number and personal details.
Date, time, and location of the accident.
Names, addresses, and contact details of everyone involved, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
Vehicle registration numbers and insurance details for all vehicles involved.
A brief description of what happened, including road and weather conditions.
Photos of the scene, damage to vehicles, and any relevant road signs or markings, if available.
Police reference number, if the police attended or you reported the accident to them.
Providing clear and accurate information will help your insurer assess your claim efficiently.
Explaining That the Accident Wasn’t Your Fault
When speaking to your insurer, clearly explain why you believe the other party was at fault. Stick to the facts – describe what you saw and did, and avoid making assumptions or admitting any blame. If you have supporting evidence, such as dashcam footage, witness statements, or photos, mention these to your insurer. This evidence can play a key role in proving fault and supporting your claim.
What Happens During the Initial Claim Reporting Stage?
Once you’ve reported the accident, your insurer will:
Log the details of the incident and open a claim file.
Ask you for any supporting documents or evidence.
Advise you on the next steps, such as arranging repairs or a courtesy car.
Contact the other party’s insurer to begin the process of recovering your losses.
You may be assigned a claims handler who will be your main point of contact. They’ll keep you updated and may request additional information as the claim progresses.
Tips for Keeping Records and Communicating
It’s essential to keep thorough records throughout the claims process:
Document every phone call and email with your insurer, noting the date, time, and the name of the person you spoke to.
Save copies of all correspondence, including letters, forms, and receipts.
Store all evidence (photos, witness details, police reports) in a safe place.
Good record-keeping can help resolve disputes and speed up your claim. If you run into difficulties, such as delays or disagreements with your insurer, it’s worth learning more about problems with insurance policies and how to address them.
By following these steps and providing all necessary information, you’ll put yourself in the best position to make a successful claim when the accident wasn’t your fault.
Dealing with the Other Party’s Insurer
Dealing with the Other Party’s Insurer
After an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may find yourself dealing directly with the other driver’s insurance company. Understanding how this process works can help you protect your interests and make your claim go more smoothly.
How the Other Party’s Insurer May Contact You
Once the accident has been reported, the at-fault driver’s insurer may get in touch with you. They might call, email, or send you a letter to discuss the details of the incident, assess liability, or offer to handle repairs and compensation. Sometimes, they will reach out quickly, especially if their policyholder has already admitted fault.
It’s important to remember that you are not obliged to speak to the other insurer straight away or accept any offers without understanding your rights. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure, you can ask for all communication to be put in writing, or request time to seek advice.
Your Rights and Responsibilities
You have certain rights when dealing with a third-party insurer:
You are not required to accept their first offer. Insurers sometimes make early settlement offers that may not fully cover your losses.
You can choose how your vehicle is repaired. You are not obliged to use the repairer suggested by the other insurer if you have a preferred garage or want to use your own insurer’s approved network.
You can claim for all losses. This includes not just vehicle damage, but also things like personal injury, loss of earnings, or hire car costs, if appropriate.
At the same time, you have a responsibility to be truthful and provide accurate information. If the insurer asks for documents such as photographs, witness statements, or repair estimates, provide these promptly to avoid delays.
Seeking Compensation from the At-Fault Party’s Insurer
In the UK, if you were not at fault, your claim is usually made directly against the other driver’s insurer under the principles set out in the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means their insurer is responsible for covering your losses.
Compensation can include:
The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle
The cost of a courtesy or hire car while yours is off the road
Medical expenses and compensation for any injuries (under the Civil Liability Act 2018 for whiplash claims)
Other out-of-pocket expenses caused by the accident
The process typically involves submitting evidence of your losses and negotiating with the insurer. If liability is clear, the at-fault insurer should settle your claim promptly. If there’s a dispute, you may need to provide extra evidence, or in rare cases, consider legal action.
Remember, you do not have to accept the first settlement offer. Take your time to review what’s being offered and make sure it covers all your losses. If you’re unsure, it’s sensible to seek independent advice before agreeing to any settlement.
Dealing with the other party’s insurer can seem daunting, but knowing your rights and what to expect helps ensure you receive fair treatment and the compensation you deserve.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
When you’re involved in a road accident that wasn’t your fault, you have the right to claim compensation for the losses and expenses you’ve suffered as a result. Understanding what you can claim for, how compensation is worked out, and how your insurer helps recover your costs can make the process much smoother.
Types of Compensation Available
If another driver was responsible for the accident, you may be entitled to claim for several different types of losses, including:
Vehicle Repairs or Replacement: If your car is damaged, you can claim for the cost of repairs. If your vehicle is written off (beyond economical repair), you can claim for its market value at the time of the accident.
Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of any medical treatment you need as a result of the accident, such as hospital visits, physiotherapy, prescription charges, or specialist care.
Lost Earnings: If your injuries mean you have to take time off work, you can claim for the wages you’ve lost during your recovery period. This applies whether you’re employed or self-employed.
Other Damages: You may also be able to claim for additional costs, such as the cost of hiring a replacement vehicle, travel expenses to medical appointments, or damage to personal belongings inside your car. In some cases, you can also claim for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life (known as “general damages”).
How Compensation Amounts Are Assessed
The value of your compensation depends on the specific losses you’ve suffered. Insurers and courts use evidence such as repair estimates, receipts, payslips, and medical reports to calculate the amount.
Vehicle damage is usually based on repair invoices or, if written off, the car’s pre-accident market value.
Medical expenses must be backed up with receipts and medical records.
Lost earnings are typically calculated using payslips or tax records to show your usual income.
General damages for pain and suffering are assessed according to guidelines published by the Judicial College, which provide recommended compensation brackets for different types of injuries.
It’s important to keep all relevant documents and evidence to support your claim.
The Role of Your Insurer in Recovering Costs
If you make a claim through your own insurer, they will usually handle the process of recovering costs from the at-fault party’s insurer. This is known as a “non-fault” claim. Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, all drivers must have at least third-party insurance, which covers compensation for damage and injury caused to others.
Your insurer will:
Contact the at-fault driver’s insurer to recover the costs of repairs, medical expenses, and other losses.
Arrange for your vehicle to be repaired or replaced, and may provide a courtesy car while yours is off the road.
Handle negotiations about the value of your claim and keep you informed throughout the process.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be traced (for example, in a hit-and-run), you may still be able to claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), which provides compensation in these situations.
In summary, if you weren’t to blame for the accident, you can claim for a wide range of losses. The amount you receive will depend on the evidence you provide and the circumstances of your case. Your insurer will support you in recovering your costs, making the process as straightforward as possible.
Using a Courtesy Car After a Non-Fault Accident
When you’re involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to a courtesy car while your own vehicle is being repaired. This helps you stay mobile and carry on with your daily life, even when your car is off the road. Here’s what you need to know about using a courtesy car after a non-fault accident in the UK.
Your Right to a Courtesy Car
If the accident was not your fault, you generally have the right to a courtesy car while your vehicle is being repaired, provided this is included in your insurance policy or arranged through the at-fault driver’s insurer. UK law allows you to recover reasonable costs from the responsible party, which can include the cost of a replacement vehicle. This is supported by the principle of putting you back in the position you were in before the accident.
Arranging a Courtesy Car Through Your Insurer
Most comprehensive car insurance policies offer a courtesy car as standard, but it’s important to check your policy documents for any specific terms. After reporting your accident to your insurer, they will usually arrange for a courtesy car to be provided by an approved repairer. In some cases, you may be able to choose a vehicle that’s similar in size and type to your own, though this can depend on availability.
If the accident was not your fault, you may also be able to claim your non-fault accident courtesy car directly from the at-fault driver’s insurer, or through a credit hire company. This can be especially helpful if your own policy does not include a courtesy car or if you need a specific type of vehicle.
Coverage, Limits, and Conditions
While courtesy cars are a valuable benefit, there are some important conditions and limits to be aware of:
Type of Vehicle: The courtesy car provided is often a standard model and may not match your own vehicle in size or features. If you require a larger or specialised vehicle, discuss this with your insurer as soon as possible.
Duration: The courtesy car is typically available for as long as your car is being repaired by an approved repairer. If your vehicle is written off (declared a total loss), the courtesy car may only be available for a limited time, usually until a settlement offer is made.
Insurance Cover: The courtesy car will usually be insured under your existing policy, but check whether the same level of cover applies, especially if you have extras like breakdown cover or personal belongings cover.
Exclusions: Courtesy cars are generally not available if your car is stolen or if repairs are being carried out by a non-approved garage, unless your policy specifically allows for this.
Costs: If you use a credit hire company to arrange a courtesy car, make sure you understand any potential costs or liabilities if the at-fault driver’s insurer disputes your claim.
Practical Tips
Always report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible and ask about your courtesy car entitlement.
Keep all correspondence and documentation related to the courtesy car arrangement.
Return the courtesy car promptly once your own vehicle is ready, to avoid any additional charges.
For more detailed guidance on how to claim your non-fault accident courtesy car, including step-by-step instructions and what to expect, explore our dedicated page. This can help ensure you make the most of your rights and avoid unnecessary delays.
What If the Accident Happened Abroad?
When an accident happens outside the UK and you weren’t at fault, the process for making a claim can be more complicated than if the incident occurred at home. Here’s what you need to know to help you navigate a non-fault vehicle insurance claim abroad.
How to Make a Claim After an Accident Abroad
If you’ve been involved in a road accident abroad that wasn’t your fault, start by gathering as much evidence as possible at the scene. This includes:
Photographs of the vehicles, the accident location, and any damage
Names, addresses, and contact details of everyone involved, including witnesses
Details of the other driver’s insurance (ask for their Green Card or international insurance certificate if possible)
A copy of the police report, if one is made
It’s important to notify your UK insurer as soon as possible. They will advise you on the next steps and may be able to handle your claim on your behalf, especially if your policy includes European cover.
For a step-by-step guide specific to overseas incidents, see our detailed page on making a claim if you’re involved in a road accident abroad.
Differences in Process and Documentation
Dealing with an accident abroad often means handling claims with foreign insurers. The process and required documents can vary depending on the country where the accident took place:
Language barriers: You may need to translate documents or correspond in another language.
Local laws: Each country has its own road traffic laws and insurance requirements. For example, many European countries use the European Accident Statement form, which both drivers fill out at the scene.
Time limits: Some countries have shorter deadlines for reporting accidents or submitting claims than the UK.
Your UK insurer may work with a local partner or representative in the country where the accident happened. They can help you understand what documents are needed and guide you through the process.
Important Considerations and Tips
Contact your insurer immediately: Prompt notification helps avoid delays and ensures you follow the correct procedures.
Keep all paperwork: Save receipts for any expenses (like vehicle recovery, repairs, or alternative transport), as you may be able to claim these back.
Don’t admit liability: Even if you feel pressured, do not admit fault at the scene. Let the insurers and authorities determine responsibility.
Know your cover: Check if your policy includes legal expenses or breakdown assistance for overseas travel.
Understand compensation procedures: In some cases, you may need to claim directly from the foreign driver’s insurer, or through the UK Motor Insurers’ Bureau if the other driver is uninsured or untraceable.
Making a claim for an accident that wasn’t your fault while abroad can seem daunting, but with careful documentation and the right support from your insurer, you can protect your rights and seek the compensation you’re entitled to. For more in-depth advice and examples, visit our page on making a claim if you’re involved in a road accident abroad.
Other Related Claims You May Need to Know About
When you’re involved in a vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault, there are often other types of claims you might need to consider alongside your main insurance claim. Understanding these related claims can help you get the full support and compensation you’re entitled to, depending on your circumstances.
If Your Car or Its Contents Are Stolen After the Accident
Unfortunately, accidents can sometimes leave your vehicle vulnerable. If your car is stolen, or if items inside your car go missing after the incident, you may be able to make a separate insurance claim. This is especially important if your car was left unattended or unsecure due to the accident. For more details on how to proceed, including what evidence you’ll need and how your insurer will handle such claims, see our guide on making a claim if your car or its contents are stolen.
Claims Related to Workplace Accidents
If the vehicle was being used for work purposes at the time of the accident – whether you’re a delivery driver, using a company car, or travelling between work sites – there may be additional rights and responsibilities. In these situations, your employer may have specific insurance policies in place, and you might be covered by workplace accident regulations as well as road traffic laws. It’s important to report the incident to your employer as soon as possible, as they may need to notify their insurer. For a better understanding of your rights and what steps to take, read our guide on workplace accidents.
Other Relevant Claim Types
Depending on the details of your accident, you may also need to consider:
Personal injury claims: If you or your passengers were injured, you could be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost earnings, or pain and suffering. These claims can be made even if you were not at fault.
Uninsured driver claims: If the other driver was uninsured or left the scene, you may still be able to claim through your own insurer or the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, which handles cases involving uninsured or untraced drivers.
Property damage claims: If personal belongings (like laptops, phones, or child car seats) were damaged in the accident, check your policy to see if you can claim for these items.
Loss of use or courtesy car: If your vehicle is off the road for repairs, you may be entitled to a courtesy car or compensation for alternative transport, depending on your policy.
Each of these claim types may have specific time limits and evidence requirements, so it’s important to act quickly and keep detailed records of the accident, any losses, and your communications with insurers.
If you’re unsure whether a particular situation is covered, or if you have questions about your rights after a non-fault accident, reviewing your policy documents and speaking to your insurer can help clarify your options. Exploring related topics, such as making a claim if your car or its contents are stolen or understanding your rights in workplace accidents, can also provide valuable guidance tailored to your circumstances.
What to Expect During the Claims Process
What to Expect During the Claims Process
When you make a vehicle insurance claim after an accident that wasn’t your fault, understanding what happens next can help you feel more in control. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect during the claims process in the UK, including timelines, how insurers decide who is at fault, possible outcomes, and how to keep track of your claim.
Typical Timeline: From Claim Submission to Resolution
The time it takes to settle a claim varies, but most straightforward cases are resolved within a few weeks to a couple of months. More complex cases – especially those where fault is disputed – can take longer. Here’s a general outline:
Claim Submission: Once you report the accident to your insurer, they will open a claim file. You should do this as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of the incident.
Initial Assessment: Your insurer will review the information you provide, such as your statement, photos, and any witness details.
Investigation: The insurer will contact the other driver’s insurer and gather further evidence, which may include police reports or CCTV footage.
Fault Assessment: Both insurers will review the facts to determine who was responsible, following rules set out in the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Civil Procedure Rules for personal injury claims.
Repair and Compensation: If you are found not at fault, your insurer will arrange repairs and may recover costs from the other party’s insurer. You may also receive a courtesy car, depending on your policy.
Resolution: The claim is closed once repairs are complete, and any compensation for injury or losses is paid.
How Insurers Investigate and Assess Fault
Insurers follow a set of guidelines called the Association of British Insurers (ABI) General Principles for the Assessment of Liability. They look at:
Accident reports and diagrams
Statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses
Police reports, if available
Photographs of the scene and vehicle damage
They may also refer to the Highway Code to determine if any road rules were broken. For example, if someone drove through a red light or failed to give way, this will strongly influence the decision.
If liability is clear, the process is usually straightforward. If it’s not, insurers may negotiate or use independent assessors to review the evidence.
Possible Outcomes and How Disputes Are Handled
There are a few possible outcomes:
Fault is agreed: If both insurers agree you were not at fault, your claim should be settled quickly, and you won’t usually have to pay your excess.
Fault is disputed: If the other driver’s insurer disagrees, your insurer may negotiate on your behalf. If agreement can’t be reached, the dispute may go to the Financial Ombudsman Service or, in rare cases, to court.
Split liability: Sometimes, both drivers are found partly responsible. In this case, compensation may be shared according to each party’s degree of fault.
If you disagree with your insurer’s decision, you have the right to complain through their internal complaints process and then escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
Tips on Staying Informed and Following Up
Keep detailed records: Save all correspondence, photos, and receipts related to the accident and your claim.
Ask for updates: If you haven’t heard from your insurer within a week or two, don’t hesitate to call or email for a progress report.
Understand your policy: Check your policy documents so you know what is covered, such as courtesy cars or legal expenses.
Respond promptly: If your insurer asks for more information, provide it as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Stay organised: Make notes of who you speak to, when, and what was discussed.
By understanding the claims process and your rights, you can navigate your claim with greater confidence and ensure you get the outcome you deserve.
What to Do If You Encounter Problems With Your Claim
When making a non-fault insurance claim, it’s not uncommon to run into unexpected issues. Understanding what might go wrong, and knowing how to respond, can help you resolve problems more quickly and reduce stress.
Common Problems in Non-Fault Claims
Some of the most frequent problems people face include:
Delays in Processing: Insurers may take longer than expected to handle your claim, often due to waiting for information from the other party or further investigations.
Disputes Over Fault: Sometimes the other driver or their insurer may not accept liability, even if you believe you were not at fault.
Claim Denials: Your insurer might refuse your claim if they believe you breached your policy terms, failed to provide enough evidence, or if there’s disagreement about what happened.
Low Settlement Offers: You may be offered less compensation than you think you’re entitled to, especially for vehicle repairs or personal injury.
How to Handle Delays, Disputes, or Denials
If you experience delays, keep a record of all your communications with your insurer. Regularly follow up and ask for clear timelines. If your claim is delayed without good reason, you have the right to complain.
For disputes over fault, gather as much evidence as possible – photos, witness statements, police reports, and any correspondence. The Civil Liability Act 2018 and the Road Traffic Act 1988 set out rules around liability, but insurers may still interpret events differently. If you disagree with a decision, ask your insurer to explain the reasons in writing and review their evidence.
If your claim is denied, carefully read the insurer’s explanation. Check your policy terms and consider whether you have provided all required information. If you believe the denial is unfair, you can challenge the decision through your insurer’s complaints procedure.
Where to Get Help and Advice
If you’re struggling to resolve a problem with your claim, don’t hesitate to seek guidance. You can escalate unresolved complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service, an independent body that investigates disputes between consumers and financial businesses.
For more detailed advice and practical steps on dealing with issues like delays, disputes, or rejections, visit our dedicated guide on problems with insurance policies. This resource covers your rights, how to complain effectively, and what to do if you’re not satisfied with your insurer’s response.
Remember, staying organised and informed is key. Keep copies of all documents, note important dates, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if something isn’t clear. By knowing your rights and the steps to take, you can give yourself the best chance of resolving any problems with your non-fault claim.
Further Resources and Support
When dealing with a vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s important to know where you can turn for more information and support. Staying informed helps you protect your rights and make confident decisions throughout your claim.
If you want a broader understanding of the claims process, you may find our guide on making a claim under vehicle insurance helpful. It covers the basics of how vehicle insurance claims work in the UK, including what to expect from your insurer and how liability is determined.
For more specific situations, explore these related topics:
If your car is off the road after a non-fault accident, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle. Learn more about how to claim your non-fault accident courtesy car.
If your car or its contents have been stolen, see our page on making a claim if your car or its contents are stolen for step-by-step advice.
For general information about what to do following any accident, including those where fault is unclear, read our guidance on making a claim if you’re in an accident.
If your accident happened outside the UK, there are different rules and procedures. Our guide to making a claim if you’re involved in a road accident abroad explains what to do.
Sometimes, vehicle accidents can happen while you’re working or driving for your job. If this applies to you, it’s worth understanding your rights around workplace accidents, as different protections and procedures may apply.
If you run into issues with your insurer – such as delays, disputes over liability, or rejected claims – see our practical advice on handling problems with insurance policies.
Finding Legal Advice and Support
If you’re unsure about your situation or need help challenging an insurer’s decision, you can seek advice from:
Citizens Advice, which offers free, confidential guidance on insurance disputes and your legal rights.
The Financial Ombudsman Service, which can help resolve complaints about insurers.
Solicitors specialising in personal injury or insurance law, who can explain your options and represent you if needed.
Stay Informed and Know Your Rights
UK law protects drivers who are not at fault in road accidents. You have the right to claim compensation for your losses, including repairs, replacement vehicles, and sometimes injury or inconvenience. Insurers must follow the Financial Conduct Authority’s rules for treating customers fairly and handling claims promptly.
By using the resources above and seeking support when needed, you can make sure you’re treated fairly and get the help you deserve. Always keep records of your accident, communications with insurers, and any expenses you incur. This will help you if you need to escalate your claim or seek further advice.
