Car Accident Claims FAQs

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s normal to feel shaken or unsure of what to do next. Unfortunately, your actions in the aftermath could compromise your legal right to claim compensation for your injuries. These frequently asked questions aim to help you understand what to do after a car accident.

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident?

Your priority should be your safety and the safety of others. Check for injuries and call an ambulance if anybody is seriously hurt. Even if you feel fine, it’s still a good idea to get a medical check-up as some injuries may not be immediately obvious.

If it’s safe to do so, try to gather evidence at the scene:

• Take clear photographs of the accident scene and vehicle damage from multiple angles.
• Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver.
• Get names and contact details of any witnesses.
• Check for nearby CCTV or dashcam footage and ask for a copy if it captured the incident.

All of this can help support your car accident claim later. Also, make a note of the time, location, weather conditions, and anything else that could be relevant.

2. What if the car accident was partly my fault?

Don’t admit fault at the scene even if you believe you might have contributed to it. Just exchange details and stay calm. Emotions often run high after an accident, so avoid arguments.

It’s also worth noting that what seems like your fault initially might not be so clear once a solicitor reviews the full circumstances. That’s why it’s important to get legal advice before making assumptions.

3. Can I still claim if the car accident was partially my fault?

Maybe. In cases where both drivers share some responsibility, claims can be settled on a split liability basis. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault, you may receive 70% of the compensation.

Even if your share of the blame is higher, you might still receive some compensation. A solicitor will look at the available evidence and advise you on whether a claim is still worth pursuing.

4. Should I accept an out-of-court settlement from the other driver’s insurer?

In our opinion, it’s best not to accept any settlement offer without legal advice. If the insurer is offering compensation quickly, it may be because they know you have a valid claim and want to limit the payout.

Accepting an early settlement might stop you from claiming additional costs later, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment, or loss of earnings. You might also miss out on compensation for future financial losses or psychological trauma.

Always speak to an independent solicitor first as they will act in your interests, not the insurers. A solicitor can review the offer and let you know whether it’s fair or if you could get more.

5. How much will it cost to make a car accident claim?

Most car accident claims are handled on a No Win No Fee basis. This typically means:

• You won’t pay anything upfront.
• You don’t pay anything if your car accident claim is unsuccessful.
• If you win, your solicitor takes a success fee from your compensation.

This setup allows you to get legal representation without financial risk. You should be told upfront what percentage your solicitor will charge if the claim is successful, so there are no hidden surprises.

6. What types of compensation could I receive?

The amount of compensation you could receive depends on the severity of your injuries and how the car crash has affected your life. You may be able to claim for:

• Pain and suffering.
• Medical expenses (past and future).
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
• Travel expenses related to your treatment.
• Loss of earnings.
• Future loss of income if you’re unable to return to work.
• Damage to personal property.

Each case is different, and your solicitor will assess your individual situation to make sure you receive what you’re entitled to.

7. What if the other driver doesn’t have car insurance?

You could still make a claim. Your solicitor can pursue compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), a UK organisation that helps victims of uninsured or untraced drivers.

You can still use a No Win No Fee agreement for these claims, and your solicitor will handle the process on your behalf.

8. Do I need a solicitor to make a car accident claim?

While it’s not legally required, having a No Win No Fee solicitor can make a big difference. They understand the claims process, know how to value your injury accurately, and will deal with insurers on your behalf. Most importantly, they’ll ensure you receive fair compensation.

Without legal help, you might accept less than you’re entitled to or miss out on certain types of damages altogether. A solicitor will guide you through everything, from collecting evidence to negotiating a settlement.

9. How long do I have to make a car accident claim?

In most cases, you have up to three years from the date of the accident to start your claim. However, exceptions may apply:

• If the injured person is a child, the three-year limit starts from their 18^th birthday.
• If the person lacks mental capacity, the time limit may not apply.
• Where your injury presented at a later time, the date of knowledge might apply.

The sooner you start your claim, the easier it will be to gather evidence and get the right support in place.

To Conclude

If you’ve been injured in a car accident and it wasn’t your fault (or even if it partly was), it’s worth contacting our claims advisors on 0800 6524 881 for free advice. They can talk through your case in a free consultation and help you decide whether to move forward with a car accident claim. The right guidance early on can make all the difference in how your claim turns out.

Even if you’re unsure whether you have a valid claim, it costs nothing to ask. And with a No Win No Fee agreement, there’s no financial risk in finding out where you stand.