1. Time Limit to Claim for Vehicle Damage in the UK
In the UK, you generally have six years from the date of the car accident to claim for property damage, including damage to your vehicle. This time frame applies to civil claims in England and Wales and allows you to seek reimbursement for repair or replacement costs caused by another driver’s negligence.
This six-year limit is separate from personal injury claims, which typically have a three-year deadline.
2. What If You’re Also Claiming for Personal Injury?
If your accident involved personal injury in addition to car damage, you must bring the injury claim within three years from the date of the accident (or from when you became aware of your injuries). You can still claim for vehicle damage within the longer six-year limit, but it’s often efficient to handle both claims together.
Consulting a solicitor early ensures both parts of your case are filed correctly and on time.
3. Exceptions to the Time Limit
There are some exceptions to the six-year rule:
- Minors (under 18): The time limit starts on their 18th birthday, giving them until age 24 to make a claim
- Mental capacity: If the claimant lacks mental capacity, there may be no time limit until they regain it
- Unknown third party: If the other driver fled the scene or is untraceable, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) may handle your claim, but strict deadlines apply—typically within 3 years
It’s best to act quickly regardless of the type of claim to avoid complications with evidence or insurer delays.
4. What You Can Claim For
A car damage claim may include:
- Repair costs or the full market value if your car is written off
- Hire car costs while your vehicle is being repaired
- Towing and recovery charges
- Loss of use or inconvenience
- Personal property damaged in the vehicle (e.g. phones, glasses)
- Excess recovery if you claimed through your own insurer
You’ll need to provide documentation such as repair invoices, valuations, and receipts to support your claim.
5. Who Pays for the Damage?
If the accident was the other driver’s fault, their insurance company will cover your damage. If liability is admitted, you can file the claim directly through their insurer. If you use your own insurance, your provider may reclaim the costs on your behalf.
In cases involving uninsured or untraced drivers, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) may step in to compensate you.
6. What to Do After a Car Accident
To preserve your right to claim for vehicle damage:
- Take photos of the damage and accident scene
- Get the other driver’s details and insurance information
- File a police report, especially for hit-and-run cases
- Contact your insurer to notify them of the incident
- Keep records of repair costs and estimates
Even if you’re not ready to claim immediately, having documentation will support your case later.
7. Should You Use a Solicitor for a Vehicle Damage Claim?
For straightforward claims involving minor damage and clear liability, you may not need legal help. However, a solicitor is beneficial when:
- The other party denies fault
- You’re also claiming for injury
- The insurer delays or disputes payment
- The accident involved an uninsured or untraced driver
Legal support ensures you don’t settle for less than you’re entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I claim if the accident was partly my fault?
Yes. You may still be entitled to partial compensation, depending on your level of responsibility.
Q2: What happens if I miss the six-year deadline?
Your claim is likely to be time-barred. Courts rarely accept claims filed after the deadline unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Q3: Can I claim through my own insurance and recover the excess?
Yes. If the other driver is at fault, you can claim through your insurer and then recover the excess once liability is settled.
Q4: Is vehicle damage compensation taxable?
No. Compensation for property damage in car accidents is not taxable.
Q5: What if I no longer own the car?
You can still claim for the damage if you owned the car at the time of the accident and have documentation to prove the loss.
Q6: Can I claim for a leased or financed vehicle?
Yes. You may claim on behalf of the vehicle owner (finance company) or have them pursue the claim directly, depending on your agreement.
Conclusion
You have up to six years to claim for vehicle damage after a car accident in the UK—but waiting too long can weaken your case and affect your chances of a full recovery. Act promptly, gather evidence, and consider speaking to a solicitor if liability is disputed or you’re unsure how to proceed. Protect your rights and your finances by making your claim before the deadline expires.