Hit-and-Run Compensation
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it may still be possible to claim compensation despite the driver fleeing the scene. While many people assume they cannot make a claim in this situation, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) is an organisation whose role is to ensure that hit-and-run victims can be compensated. We understand what is involved in claims of this nature, and will work with the MIB to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Call us today to discuss the situation in more detail. We can help with your hit-and-run compensation claim and will advise you of the next steps to take. Call us on 0345 872 6666 or complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
What Our Clients Say
How JMW Can Help
JMW has helped many victims of hit-and-run incidents secure the compensation to which they are entitled. Our team has years of experience, backed by a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in these unique cases. We are dedicated to ensuring that every client fully understands their rights and the options available to them.
Navigating the complexities of hit-and-run claims can be daunting. However, with JMW's skilled solicitors, this process is simplified - our team will address the unique challenges of your case. We recognise the importance of a meticulous approach and are committed to guiding our clients through every step, ensuring that they get the best outcome.
Our solicitors have a strong track record of working effectively with the MIB, to ensure that claims are processed smoothly and efficiently.
From the initial consultation to the final resolution, our team will be by your side to offer advice and legal support, ensuring that every aspect of your claim is managed effectively and efficiently. We will gather comprehensive evidence, liaise with the necessary authorities on your behalf and submit all documentation in a timely and accurate manner. With our proactive approach we aim to alleviate as much stress as possible, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Making a Hit-and-Run Claim
A hit-and-run accident can be a very distressing event. Not only will you be dealing with damage to your vehicle and the injuries you and your passengers may have suffered there is also the frustration and sense of feeling abandoned by the party at fault. Victims of such incidents may also wrongly assume that they are not able to make a claim because the driver cannot be traced. However, this is not the case.
The MIB was set up in 1946 to compensate victims of uninsured drivers. All motor insurance firms are members of the scheme and contribute to it, ensuring that victims of such accidents can receive the compensation they deserve. Compensation can also be sought by a pedestrian cyclist or motorbike rider involved in a car crash with an uninsured driver.
Submitting a Claim to the Motor Insurers' Bureau
There are certain steps that must be taken before you are able to make a claim to the MIB. This will enable the MIB to deal with your case more efficiently. The steps are:
- Report the incident to the police - this should be done within 14 days of the incident, but when this cannot be done, it must be reported as soon as reasonably possible
- Make enquiries - do all you can to try and identify the other driver
- Contact your insurer - all accidents should be reported as per your insurance policy
If it is impossible to find out the details of the driver at fault, we will submit a claim to the MIB on your behalf. The procedure for claiming is slightly different to other claims, and particular rules apply with regard to what can be recovered by way of compensation.
The MIB is a non-profit-making company and is funded by contributions from the country's insurance organisations, to make sure victims of motor accidents are adequately compensated.
We can deal with the MIB on your behalf, making the claims process less stressful for you while ensuring you get the outcome you deserve.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Hit-and-Run Incident
To help your claim, it is important to collect as much information as possible about the incident, even if the driver who caused the accident is not present. The following is a rough guide for you to follow if you have been involved in a hit-and-run incident:
- Make sure you receive medical attention for your injuries
- Report the accident to the police as soon as possible
- Find and collect the details of any witnesses to the incident
- Take pictures of the scene
- If possible, record the registration plate of the driver responsible
If there is damage to your vehicle which requires repair by a garage, request an estimate for how much this will cost.
Why Choose JMW?
Our approach is client-centric. We understand that each person's situation is unique, and we provide personalised legal advice and support tailored to your individual needs. Our team communicates with clear language and maintains transparency at every stage of the personal injury claim process. We ensure you are kept up-to-date with every development in your case. Our team is always on hand to answer your questions, explain legal jargon, and provide the emotional support you might need during challenging times.
JMW has been recognised for our excellence by the Legal 500 and the Chambers & Partners guides due to our commitment to securing the best possible outcome for our clients. These accreditations are a testament to our professional expertise, our ethical practice, and our consistent delivery of high-quality legal services. When you choose JMW, you're opting for a team whose excellence is acknowledged by some of the most respected bodies in the legal industry.
We conduct a thorough evaluation of each case, ensuring that every aspect of your claim is meticulously considered. This comprehensive approach allows us to quantify your claim accurately, factoring in not just the immediate impacts but also the long-term consequences of your road traffic accident.
We believe that everyone deserves access to top-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. This is why we offer our personal injury services on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you can pursue your hit-and-run compensation claim with the backing of expert legal advice and support, without the worry of upfront legal fees.
FAQs About Hit-and-Run Compensation Claims
- What is a hit-and-run accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when one party involved in a road traffic incident leaves the scene without providing contact details, offering assistance, or fulfilling their legal obligation to report the accident. This can involve collisions between two vehicles, as well as incidents where a vehicle hits a pedestrian, cyclist or motorcyclist. It also extends to situations where property is damaged by a vehicle whose driver then leaves without acknowledging their responsibility.
The nature of hit-and-run accidents can make them particularly distressing, as the party who is left behind may feel abandoned and uncertain about how to proceed, especially in terms of seeking compensation for any injuries or damages incurred.
- Can I still claim compensation if the at-fault driver is not identified?
You can still make a hit-and-run accident claim if the at-fault driver is not identified. This is made possible through the MIB. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, JMW can guide you through the process of making a personal injury claim to the MIB.
While the process may be slightly different from standard compensation claims, our experienced team is adept at navigating these nuances to ensure you still receive the justice and compensation you are entitled to. It is important to note that specific criteria and deadlines apply to MIB claims, so seek legal advice as soon as possible to understand your rights and the viability of your claim.
- Is there a time limit for filing a hit-and-run compensation claim?
You generally have three years from the date of the hit-and-run accident to start a claim. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For instance, if you are claiming on behalf of a child, the three-year time limit begins on their 18th birthday. This means that you have until this date to claim on their behalf, or until they turn 21 for them to make their own personal injury claim. In cases where the victim lacks mental capacity, there may not be a time limit at all.
It is also worth noting that when claiming through the MIB for an untraced driver, the time limits will likely vary, and may be shorter than the standard time limits for personal injury claims. Given the specific time constraints and the complexity of these claims, it is advisable to seek legal guidance as soon as possible.
- Question
For a hit-and-run accident claim, compensation is typically split into two categories:
- General damages: these cover the pain, suffering and loss of amenity resulting from your injuries. This means compensation not just for the physical injuries but also for the impact on your quality of life, including psychological trauma such as anxiety or depression that may have ensued following the hit-and-run incident.
- Special damages: these are intended to cover specific financial losses you have incurred or will incur as a result of the accident. This can include:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs.
- Loss of earnings if you have been unable to work.
- Future loss of earnings if your ability to work is impacted in the long term.
- Costs of any necessary modifications to your home or vehicle necessitated by your injuries
- Any other out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the incident, such as travel costs to medical appointments.
By accurately assessing and compiling all of the losses and expenses related to your hit-and-run incident, we can ensure that your compensation fully reflects the impact of the accident on your life. JMW's team of experts specialises in meticulously evaluating every head of loss, ensuring that your claim is comprehensive and that you receive the appropriate compensation.
- How does uninsured motorist coverage apply to hit-and-run claims?
Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to protect individuals if they are involved in an accident where the other party is either not insured or cannot be identified, as is often the case in hit-and-run incidents. In the context of a hit-and-run, this type of coverage allows you to make a claim against your own insurance policy to cover the costs for injuries and damages that would typically be the responsibility of the at-fault party.
The specifics of how uninsured motorist coverage applies vary based on the terms of your insurance policy, and the regulations governing insurance in your jurisdiction. After a hit-and-run incident, notify your insurance provider and discuss your coverage options. Additionally, seeking legal advice can provide clarity on how to navigate your uninsured motorist coverage and can ensure that your rights are fully protected.
- How long does it typically take to resolve a hit-and-run compensation claim?
The time it takes to resolve a hit-and-run compensation claim varies significantly based on several factors. These include the complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, the amount of evidence available, and how quickly the necessary information is obtained and processed. Additionally, the timeframe may be influenced by the workload of the courts or the MIB if the claim involves an untraced driver.
Generally, straightforward cases may be resolved in a matter of months, while more complex cases - particularly those involving severe injuries or disputed facts - may take longer. Settling outside of court can expedite the process, whereas cases that require a court hearing will typically take longer to resolve.
At JMW, we understand the importance of resolving your claim efficiently, while ensuring that the compensation you receive accurately reflects the impact of the hit-and-run incident on your life. Our team is committed to progressing your claim as swiftly as possible, maintaining open and clear communication with you throughout the process, and providing expert guidance at each step.
- What if the hit-and-run accident occurred in a parking lot or private property?
Accidents that occur on private property, including parking lots, are still subject to compensation claims, including those involving hit-and-run incidents. The process for pursuing compensation is similar to accidents that occur on public roads. Report the incident to the police and gather as much evidence as possible, such as witness statements and CCTV footage if available.
If the incident occurs on private property, the management or owner of the property might also hold important information or additional responsibilities. You should notify them of the accident, as they may be required to provide assistance or documentation that could be pivotal to your claim.
Regardless of the location of the hit-and-run, the MIB provides a route to seek compensation when the at-fault driver cannot be traced or is uninsured. However, specific rules and limitations may apply, making it essential to seek expert legal advice. JMW's team is experienced in handling hit-and-run claims on private property, and can guide you through the specific nuances to ensure your rights are fully protected and you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
- Can I still claim compensation if I was partially at fault for the hit-and-run accident?
You can still claim compensation even if you were partially at fault for the hit-and-run accident. This is known as 'contributory negligence'. In such cases, the compensation you are entitled to may be reduced to reflect your part in contributing to the accident. The exact amount of the reduction will depend on the degree of your responsibility for causing the accident.
Be honest about the circumstances of the accident when seeking legal advice. This allows your solicitor to provide accurate guidance and prepare a robust case on your behalf, taking into account all aspects of the incident. We will evaluate the details of your case and work to ensure that any contributory negligence is fairly assessed, and that you still receive the compensation you deserve for the part of the accident that was not your responsibility.
Talk to Us
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run incident, get in contact with our expert road traffic accident claims solicitors today to discuss your situation in more detail. Simply call us on 0345 872 6666 or allow us to call you back by completing our online enquiry form.