Being involved in a car accident is stressful, but it’s even more frustrating when it wasn’t your fault. If another driver or external factor caused the accident, you may be wondering what to do next, how to handle insurance, and whether you’ll be left out of pocket.
Understanding your rights is crucial to ensuring you’re properly compensated for any damage, injuries, or losses. Let’s break down exactly what a non-fault accident is, what steps to take, and how to protect yourself financially.
What Is a Non-Fault Accident?
A non-fault accident is one where you weren’t responsible for the collision. Instead, another driver, pedestrian, cyclist, or even road conditions caused the crash. Your insurer may determine an accident as “non-fault” if they can recover the costs from the responsible party’s insurance.
Examples of non-fault accidents include:
- A driver rear-ending you while you’re stationary.
- Another vehicle running a red light and hitting your car.
- Damage caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver (handled by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau).
- Road obstructions or poorly maintained roads causing an accident (in some cases, the local authority may be at fault).
Even if you believe you weren’t at fault, it’s important to gather evidence and follow the correct procedures to strengthen your claim. For more information on insurance claims for non-fault accidents, contact RTA Claims.
Your Legal Rights After a Non-Fault Accident
If you’ve been involved in a non-fault accident, you have certain rights under UK law:
- Vehicle Repairs or Replacement – The at-fault party’s insurer should cover the cost of repairs or provide you with a like-for-like courtesy car while your vehicle is being fixed.
- Personal Injury Compensation – If you’ve suffered an injury due to the accident, you may be entitled to compensation to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and even emotional distress.
- Loss of Earnings – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim for lost income.
- Uninsured or Hit-and-Run Drivers – If the other driver is uninsured or cannot be traced, you can still claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), a scheme designed to help victims in such situations.
Knowing these rights can help you navigate the claims process with confidence.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Non-Fault Accident
If you find yourself in a non-fault accident, follow these steps to protect yourself legally and financially:
- Ensure Safety First – Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If the accident is serious, call 999 for emergency assistance. If it’s safe to do so, move vehicles out of the way of traffic.
- Gather Evidence – Take clear photos of the scene, damage to both vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If possible, get dashcam footage.
- Exchange Information – Collect the other driver’s name, contact details, vehicle registration, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, take their details as well.
- Report to the Police (If Necessary) – If the accident involves an uninsured driver, a hit-and-run, or injuries, report it to the police via 101.
- Notify Your Insurance Company – Even though you weren’t at fault, you must inform your insurer. Delaying this could affect your claim.
By taking these steps immediately, you improve your chances of a smooth claim process.
Ways that a Claims Management Company Can Lower Stress
Are you feeling overwhelmed after a car accident? This is a natural reaction after going through such a traumatic time. Not only do you have to deal with the nerves of driving again and recovering from your injuries, but you also have to take on the claims process. When you’re not at fault for the crash, it can feel like an uphill battle to prove your case. Know that this is when a claims management company comes in. If you’re feeling stressed about this situation, they’re going to be in your corner. Let’s take a look at what they can do to keep you calm.
Deal with the Paperwork
There’s a long and drawn out process when it comes to car accident claims. You need to deal with a lot of paperwork, which gets confusing and stressful. Know that you can avoid this experience becoming overwhelming by hiring a claims management company. It’s going to be their job to deal with all of the paperwork for you. They’ll keep you in the loop so you know what’s going on. But, you don’t have to deal with the details that get complicated.
Keeps You Informed
Know that you won’t be left out of the process with a claims management company. One way they ensure you can stay calm is by updating you every step of the way. So, you know exactly what’s going on and what will happen next. This can put your mind at ease and know how things are progressing. Indeed, you don’t have to do any of the hard work.
Negotiates a Better Deal
Let’s not forget that negotiation is important when it comes to a car accident claim. The other insurance company can try to haggle you down and give you the least amount if they’re client was at fault. But, with the help of a claims management company, they’re going to ensure you get a good deal.
Conclusion
Being in a non-fault accident can be frustrating, but knowing your rights and taking the right steps can make all the difference. By gathering evidence, reporting the incident promptly, and understanding your legal options, you can ensure you’re fully compensated without unnecessary stress.