Uninsured Driver Accident Claims: What You Need to Know
Getting into a road traffic accident can be overwhelming and life-changing. When it turns out the at-fault driver is uninsured, the situation becomes even more stressful and complicated. However, you may still have legal options available — and could be entitled to compensation for your injuries, vehicle damage, lost earnings, medical costs, and other related losses.
What Happens If the Other Driver Isn’t Insured?
When a road traffic accident occurs and the driver at fault has no insurance, your solicitor will submit a claim to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The MIB is a UK non-profit organisation that compensates individuals injured by uninsured or untraced drivers.
The MIB will appoint an insurance provider to handle the claim on their behalf. If it’s agreed that the uninsured driver was at fault, the insurer may work with your solicitor to assess and settle your claim, often avoiding the need to go to court.
Key Steps to Take After a Road Traffic Accident
Regardless of whether the other driver is insured, you should always follow these steps:
- Check for Injuries: Ensure the safety of everyone involved. Call emergency services immediately if anyone is hurt.
- Contact the Police: Always report the accident, no matter how minor it seems — especially important when the other driver is uninsured.
- Gather Information:
- The other driver’s name and contact details (if they’re willing to provide them).
- Vehicle make, model, and registration number.
- Contact details and statements from any witnesses.
- Photographs of the scene, vehicle positions, and any damage.
- Avoid Cash Offers: An uninsured driver might offer cash to avoid legal action — it’s best not to accept this. You could lose out on fair compensation for medical costs, lost income, and future expenses.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident within the required timeframe. Provide all the information you’ve collected, including a police report if needed.
The Role of the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB)
The MIB ensures that victims of accidents caused by uninsured or untraced drivers aren’t left without compensation. They handle:
- Uninsured Driver Claims: Covering compensation for injuries, losses, and vehicle damage.
- Hit and Run Claims: Providing compensation when the at-fault driver leaves the scene and cannot be identified.
The MIB pays out millions of pounds each year and also works to assist the police in reducing uninsured vehicles on UK roads.
How to Check if a Driver is Insured
You can confirm the insurance status of another driver using their vehicle registration number:
- Ask your insurer to check the Motor Insurance Database (MID).
- Use the askMID website for £10 to confirm the insurance details, including the insurer’s name, policy number, and contact information.
When you report an accident to Accident Claims Assist, we’ll access the database on your behalf — at no cost to you.
Hit & Run Accidents: What You Should Do
- Look for Witnesses: Gather names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident.
- Check for CCTV or Dashcam Footage: Evidence from nearby cameras or your own dashcam can be invaluable.
- Document the Scene: Take clear photographs of vehicle damage, debris, paint transfers, and any other helpful evidence.
Reporting an Uninsured Driver
Under the Road Traffic Act 1998, you must report any road accident involving damage or injury to the police within 24 hours. Provide:
- The date and time of the accident
- Location details
- Information about all vehicles involved
If the other driver refuses to share their details or leaves the scene, notify the police immediately. Don’t try to detain them yourself — prioritise your own safety.
How Accident Claims Assist Can Help You
At Accident Claims Assist, we understand how frustrating and stressful accidents with uninsured drivers can be. With years of experience in personal injury law, our dedicated team of solicitors will:
- Guide you through the claims process
- Liaise with the MIB and insurers
- Fight for fair compensation for your injuries, vehicle damage, lost earnings, and more
- Provide expert, no-obligation advice every step of the way
Contact Accident Claims Assist today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Let us help you secure the compensation and justice you deserve.
