1. What Is a Car Accident Involving Your Car?
A car accident involving your car refers to any collision or impact that causes damage to your vehicle, injuries to people involved, or disruption to traffic. It may involve:
- Other vehicles
- Cyclists or pedestrians
- Stationary objects (e.g. poles, fences)
- Wildlife or road hazards
Even low-speed accidents can cause significant damage or injury.
2. What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
Here’s what you should do after an accident involving your car:
- Stop the car – It’s a legal requirement
- Check for injuries – Call 999 if urgent medical help is needed
- Move to safety – If it’s safe, move vehicles off the road
- Exchange details – Name, address, insurance info, registration
- Gather evidence – Take photos, get witness details, note weather/road conditions
- Report to police – If there’s injury, a hit-and-run, or no insurance
Acting quickly protects your safety and strengthens any potential claim.
3. When Should You Report the Accident?
In the UK, you must report the accident to the police within 24 hours if:
- Someone is injured
- There’s property damage and the owner isn’t present
- You don’t exchange details at the scene
You should also report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible—ideally the same day, even if you don’t intend to make a claim.
4. What Happens to Your Car After an Accident?
Depending on the damage:
- Minor damage: Repairs arranged through your insurer or a garage
- Major damage: Assessed for cost of repair vs. value
- Write-off: If the repair cost exceeds the vehicle’s value, the insurer may declare it a total loss and offer a payout
You can also arrange repairs privately if you’re not claiming through insurance.
5. Can You Drive Your Car After an Accident?
Only if:
- The car is safe and roadworthy
- Lights, brakes, and steering are functioning
- No leaking fluids or damaged structural components
If in doubt, have it inspected by a garage. Driving a damaged vehicle can lead to legal penalties.
6. Will Your Insurance Cover It?
Coverage depends on your policy:
- Comprehensive insurance: Covers damage to your car and others
- Third-party only: Covers only the other party’s damage
- Third-party, fire & theft: No coverage for your car’s damage in a crash
You may need to pay an excess, and your no-claims discount may be affected.
7. Can You Claim Compensation After a Car Accident?
Yes. If you were injured or your car was damaged and the accident wasn’t your fault, you can claim compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Personal injuries (e.g., whiplash, fractures)
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income
- Cost of a hire vehicle
A solicitor can help you file a car accident claim on a No Win, No Fee basis.
8. How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim?
You have 3 years from:
- The date of the accident, or
- When you realised your injuries were linked to the accident
Claims for vehicle damage alone may be subject to a 6-year time limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I have to report all accidents to my insurer?
Yes, even if you’re not claiming. Failing to report could invalidate your policy.
Q2: Can I drive a damaged car?
Only if it’s roadworthy. It’s illegal to drive a vehicle that poses a safety risk.
Q3: What if the accident was my fault?
You may still be covered under your insurance, depending on your policy.
Q4: Will my premiums increase?
Possibly. It depends on who was at fault and whether a claim was made.
Q5: Can I claim without injury?
Yes. You can claim for vehicle damage, property loss, or hire car expenses.
Q6: What if the other driver is uninsured?
You can make a claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).
Conclusion
A car accident involving your car can be stressful, but knowing your legal and insurance rights can help you act wisely. From exchanging details to arranging repairs and filing a claim, following the right steps ensures you stay protected and get the support you deserve.
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