My Car Was Hit and Their Insurance Won’t Pay
If your car was hit and the other driver’s car insurance won’t pay, you still have options. In the UK, claims can be disputed for many reasons, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with the bill. You can often claim through your own insurer, escalate the case, or turn to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) if the other driver is uninsured or untraceable.
This kind of situation is common in car accident claims, and knowing your rights is the first step to getting it sorted.
Key points
Why Won’t Their Insurance Pay?
There are a few common reasons the other driver’s insurer might refuse your claim:
- They dispute who was at fault
- You or the other driver didn’t report the incident properly
- There’s not enough evidence
- The driver wasn’t actually insured
- The insurer is slow or unresponsive
What to Do If Their Insurer Won’t Pay
If the other insurer refuses to pay, here is what you can do:
1. Speak to Your Own Insurance Provider
Even if the crash wasn’t your fault, your insurer can often handle the claim and then recover costs from the other driver’s insurer.
2. Gather All the Evidence You Can
Photos, dashcam footage, witness statements, and police reports can all strengthen your case and pressure the third-party insurer to pay up.
3. Use the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB)
If the driver was uninsured or fled the scene, you can make a claim through the MIB, which is designed to help victims of uninsured or untraceable drivers.
4. Consider Legal Cover
If you have legal expenses insurance (often included in comprehensive policies), your insurer may help you challenge a denied claim—sometimes even covering legal costs.
Can I Still Claim on My Own Policy?
Yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You may have to pay your excess
- Your no claims bonus could be affected unless it’s protected
- Your insurer may still recover costs from the other party later
If you’re reviewing your current policy or want better legal protection in future, you can compare car insurance with legal cover to stay better protected.
What if the other driver gave false information?
Report it to the police. If they’re untraceable or uninsured, claim through the MIB.
Can I sue the other driver directly?
Yes, especially if you have legal cover, but it’s often a last resort.
Will I definitely get my excess back if it wasn’t my fault?
Not always. It depends on whether your insurer can recover the costs successfully.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Usually within 3 years for personal injury, or as soon as possible for vehicle damage.
In Summary
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If the other insurer won’t pay, start by speaking to your own provider
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Gather strong evidence to support your side of the story
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Use the MIB if the other driver is uninsured or untraceable
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Legal expenses cover can help you challenge a denied claim
Compare Car Insurance with Legal Cover
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