When you have been involved in a motor accident that was not your fault,
it is important for you to know your legal rights.
How many estimates do I need to get my repairs authorised?
You usually only need one estimate for the repairs to be carried out on your vehicle.
Can I choose where my car gets repaired?
Yes. You may have your vehicle repaired at a bodyshop of your choice regardless of what your insurance company may say.
Am I entitled to a similar replacement vehicle while mine is off the road?
Yes. You are entitled to a ‘like for like’ vehicle. The cost of hire is recoverable from the party at fault or their insurance company. The innocent party is never out of pocket.
Am I entitled to a replacement vehicle if mine is written off?
Yes you are. The cost of the hire, for a period of up to 7 days after the write off cheque is received, is recoverable from the party at fault or their insurance company.
Do I have to pay my insurance policy excess?
No. By claiming off the person at fault insurance, you will not be invoking your own insurance policy and therefore there will be no excess for you to pay.
Will my no claims bonus be affected?
It may be temporarily affected depending on your insurers policy. However on the successful completion of the claim, your no claims bonus is reinstated.
Will any of my out of pocket expenses be recovered?
Yes. Any expenses arising as a result of the accident may be recovered. This includes loss of earnings and medical expenses.
What if I am injured in an accident?
You are entitled to register a Personal Injury Claim.