The aftermath of a non-fault accident can be incredibly stressful, confusing, and financially daunting, especially if your vehicle is your livelihood or essential for your family. A recent study by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) highlighted that motor insurers paid out £2.5 billion in motor claims in the first half of 2023 alone (Source: ABI Motor Insurance Report H1 2023), underscoring just how common these incidents are. Yet, for the individual driver, the process can feel like navigating a complex maze blindfolded.
That sinking feeling? The frustration of dealing with insurance companies? The worry about losing income? We understand. At Accident Assist Network, we talk to drivers like you every day – from experienced London taxi drivers to van drivers, motorcyclists, and even members of the Romanian community in the UK who might face additional language or cultural barriers when dealing with the claims process. We hear your concerns, and we’re here to cut through the confusion.
This comprehensive guide will tackle the most frequently asked questions about non fault accident claims, providing clear, concise, and empathetic answers to help you navigate this challenging time with confidence. Consider us your trusted friend in an unexpected crisis.
We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about non-fault accident claims below.
Click on any question to reveal a concise, clear answer. If your specific query isn’t covered, remember we’re just a phone call away!
Call us today: 020 4577 1120 or WhatsApp us: 07585 300 600
Non Fault accident claims a
Complete FAQ Guide
A non-fault crash is where another party (or their insurer/MIB) accepts liability for your vehicle damage. Insurers decide using your evidence.
Yes. Most policies require notification even if you don’t use your insurer for the claim.
Photos/video, dashcam, witness details, police ref, third-party info, location/time, and visible damage.
Yes. You can claim directly or use an independent coordinator to handle everything.
A non-fault claim is when you make a claim against another driver's insurance because they were entirely responsible for the accident. An at-fault claim is when you're deemed responsible, and the claim is handled by your own insurance policy.
You can prove it with evidence like dashcam footage, photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and a police report. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case.
Your insurance company or claims management service will investigate using the evidence you provide. If the other driver denies fault, it may take longer to settle. If they refuse to provide details, you can still pursue a claim.
You can make a claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), which handles claims against uninsured and untraced drivers. You will need to provide as much detail as possible about the other vehicle.
It shouldn't affect your no-claims bonus, but some insurers may still slightly increase your premium because you've been involved in an incident. The increase is typically much less than with an at-fault claim.
You may have to pay your excess upfront if you use your own insurer for repairs, but it will be reimbursed to you once the at-fault driver's insurer accepts liability and pays out for the claim.
If your insurer successfully recovers all costs from the at-fault driver’s insurance, your NCB should be protected. If your insurer cannot recover the costs, you may lose some or all of your NCB.
It varies depending on complexity. A simple vehicle damage claim with clear liability can be settled in a few weeks. Claims involving personal injury or disputed liability can take several months or even years.
In England & Wales, you generally have 6 years to start court proceedings for vehicle damage. In Scotland, many damage claims prescribe after 5 years. Notify your insurer as soon as possible—policy duties are separate from court deadlines.
The at-fault driver's insurance company is responsible for paying for the repairs. Your insurer or a claims management company can arrange the repairs for you
Yes, you have the right to choose your own repairer. However, your insurer or the other party's insurer may have a network of approved repair shops that they prefer you to use.
Often yes, if liability looks strong and your evidence supports interim arrangements.
Courtesy car = basic run-around via your policy. Like-for-like hire = same type/plate use, billed to at-fault side.
Pre-accident market value based on condition, mileage, spec; cash-in-lieu is possible if repairs aren’t economical.
State needs (EV, seats, boot). Coordinators arrange like-for-like delivery, often within 24 hours.
Yes. You’re entitled to choose; “approved” networks are optional, not mandatory.
Yes. Plated, ready-to-work PHV/taxi hire is available after document checks and triage.
Only if it’s safe/legal. Seek an engineer’s view; unsafe driving risks penalties and further damage.
PHV licence/driver badge, insurance docs, ID, and (if relevant) platform details.
Usually no artificial limits—reasonable, work-related use is expected. Check terms.
A credit hire company provides you with a replacement vehicle and then recovers the hire costs from the at-fault driver's insurer. This is a good option if you need a vehicle and can't afford to pay for a rental upfront.
Seek medical attention immediately. Then, document your injuries and all related medical expenses. You can claim for personal injury, and a solicitor can help you get fair compensation.
It's highly recommended to get a solicitor if you've been injured, if the other driver is disputing liability, or if you have complex uninsured losses. A solicitor can protect your interests and negotiate a fair settlement.
If you are found partially responsible, your claim will be settled on a split liability basis (e.g., 80/20). Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of blame, but you can still recover a portion of your losses.
No, a reputable claims management service or credit hire company will provide a replacement vehicle, and they will recover the costs directly from the at-fault insurer.
Yes, as your vehicle is your livelihood, you are entitled to a replacement licensed black cab while yours is being repaired. This prevents a complete stop to your business.
Didn’t find the specific answer you were looking for? Every accident is unique, and we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out for personalised advice.
And then follow it with your contact details:
Call us today: 020 4577 1120 or WhatsApp us: 07585 300 600
