Non-Fault Vehicle Repairs: What You Need to Know
When you are involved in a non-fault accident, you’re in a situation where the accident wasn’t your responsibility. Despite driving safely, the actions of another driver may have caused the accident. In these cases, your vehicle repairs can be covered without you paying out of pocket, as the liable party’s insurance should cover the costs.
What Is a Non-Fault Accident?
A non-fault accident is one where you are not responsible for the crash. If the other driver admits Liability, you can file a claim for your vehicle repairs and other expenses through their insurance. This process means you don’t have to worry about the financial burden of fixing your car.
How to File a Non-Fault Accident Claim
If you’ve had a non-fault accident and need to make a claim, follow these steps to ensure your claim is processed smoothly:
- Gather All Evidence
Collect important documents and information at the scene:
- Photographs of the vehicles involved
- Contact details for witnesses.
- Accident video footage (if available).
- Police report and any other official documentation.
- If applicable, obtain a letter from your employer to show lost wages due to the accident.
2.Report the Accident to Your Insurance: After the incident, inform your insurance company about the accident. Provide all relevant details.
3. Get Medical Records: It’s crucial to visit your GP or a hospital and report any injuries sustained in the accident to ensure proper documentation of your injuries.
4. Record Witness Details: Make sure to collect witness names and contact information to help substantiate your claim.
5. Call a Solicitor: A solicitor will review your case, handle your claim, and submit it on your behalf to ensure everything is processed correctly.
Vehicle Inspection and Repair Process
Once your claim is filed, your vehicle will undergo an inspection to assess the damage caused by the accident.
- Inspection of Vehicle Damages: An engineer appointed by the faulty party’s insurance company will inspect your vehicle to assess the damage and create a repair estimate. This includes evaluating parts that need replacement, dents, painting, and labour costs.
- Repair Estimate: The estimate is provided to your insurance company and used to determine the costs of repairing the vehicle. Once the estimate is finalized, repairs can begin after the insurance company approves it.
- Authorization for Repairs: After receiving the repair estimate, Accident Claims Assist expedites the process by liaising with the insurance company for authorization. Once authorized, your vehicle will be transferred to an approved garage for repairs.
- Vehicle Repair Timelines: The repair timeline will depend on the severity of the damage, the availability of parts, and the garage’s workload. Throughout this process, you’ll receive regular progress updates. You may also receive a replacement car while your vehicle is being repaired, minimizing inconvenience.
When Is a Driver Considered Fully at Fault?
A driver is considered entirely at fault if their actions directly caused the accident. Some scenarios include:
- Rear-End Accidents: If a driver crashes into the back of another vehicle because they were too close or failed to stop in time, they are typically at fault.
- Running a Red Light: Drivers who run a red light and cause an accident are usually considered fully responsible.
- Driving Under the Influence: If a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they will most likely be held accountable for the crash.
- Admitting Liability at the Scene: If the at-fault driver admits responsibility without proper investigation, they are considered at fault.
Why Choose Accident Claims Assist?
- No Effect on No-Claims Bonus: Your no-claims bonus remains unaffected by the claim.
- No Excess: You won’t need to pay any excess fees.
- Early Settlement: The focus is on getting your vehicle repaired quickly so you can be back on the road within 24 hours.
- No Win No Fee: We handle your claim on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless your claim is successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get my vehicle repaired for no fee after a non-fault accident?
Yes! If the other driver is at fault and has insurance, their insurance company will cover the repair costs. You don’t have to pay out of pocket for the repairs.
2. Where can I repair my vehicle after a non-fault accident?
It’s recommended that your vehicle be repaired at an approved garage. Accident Claims Assist works with manufacturer-approved garages and uses original parts with a lifetime guarantee.
3. What is a fault accident claim?
A fault accident claim occurs when your insurance company admits Liability and cannot recover the losses from the other party involved in the accident.
4. How much compensation will I get for a road accident in the UK?
The compensation amount depends on the severity of the vehicle damage, the injuries sustained, and the recovery time required. Each case is assessed individually.
