Making a Claim Against Uninsured Drivers

 

It is estimated that every year there are over 1 million uninsured drivers on the roads in the UK. Even more shocking, is the fact that uninsured drivers are involved in more than 25,000 road traffic accidents each year.

Car insurance is there to protect people who are involved in road traffic accidents, as insurance makes sure that the driver at fault is able (through their insurance company) to cover the cost of any damage, loss or injury and help put the victims back in the position they were in, prior to the accident.

Valid car insurance is a mandatory requirement for motorists in the UK, it is illegal to drive without it. Yet sadly, thousands of drivers continue to take to the roads each year without insurance, putting others and themselves at risk.

It’s important to know that regardless of whether or not the driver at fault has insurance, you may still be eligible for compensation. Here at Bonnar Accident Law, we have significant experience handling these types of claims and can help you every step of the way.

How do I know if I’ve been hit by an uninsured driver?

It may happen that the other driver is upfront and honest with you. However, as driving without insurance is illegal, it’s, unfortunately, more likely that they will be reluctant or outright refuse to pass on their insurance information.

If the other party does refuse to give you any information, or you’re sceptical about the insurance information they have provided, you can check for yourself at the time of the accident by using the Motor Insurance Database (MID). There’s a small charge for a one-off search, but all you need from the other driver is their registration number and the MID will tell you instantly whether a vehicle is insured or not.

What should I do if I’m hit by an uninsured driver?

If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, it’s vitally important that you gather as much information and evidence as possible at the time. This includes

• The registration, make and model of the vehicle
• The date, time and location of the accident
• The other driver’s name, address, contact details
• Videos or photographs of the scene if possible, to back up your claim

We understand that, regrettably, uninsured drivers are less likely than most to stick around in the event of a road traffic accident. In this case, still take as much information as you can as this will help your case.

If you discover the other driver is uninsured, or if they refuse to give you their details or leave straight after the accident, you must notify the police. Refusing to give insurance information is as much of an offence as driving uninsured is.

Can I claim against an uninsured driver?

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, you can claim through your insurance company only if you have fully comprehensive cover. Unfortunately, this means that if you only have a Third Party, Fire or Theft policy, you won’t be covered for claims against an uninsured driver regardless of whether it was your fault or not. Not to worry though, in this case, you can make a claim through The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).

MIB was set up to help drivers in the event they’re involved in a road traffic accident with an uninsured driver. MIB will carry out investigations, like an insurer, to establish the facts and may access police reports and witness statements, before they issue their response. There are certain criteria you have to meet, such as how quickly after the accident you file a claim, but they can assist you and may be able to compensate you in the absence of an insurance company.

Here at Bonnar Accident Law, we can make a claim on your behalf via MIB and are well versed in dealing with claims against uninsured drivers.

 

If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault and you would like more information, please get in touch with one of our No Win No Fee solicitors today.