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VIP Claims
Knowledge Hub 10 min readLast reviewed 15 June 2026

The Complete Non-Fault Accident & Insurance FAQ Hub

This is the one page to bookmark. Below are quick answers to the questions we're asked most often, grouped by topic. Every answer links to the full guide, so you can dive deeper wherever you need to. If your question isn't here, [speak to a specialist](/contact) — we're happy to answer them individually.

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Non-fault accidents

See our non-fault accident guide for the full picture.

Insurance claims process

See our claims timeline guide and our third-party claims guide.

Write-offs

See our write-offs & total loss guide.

Replacement vehicles

See our replacement vehicle guide.

Liability and fault

See our liability explained guide and our myths guide.

Repairs

See our car repair process guide.

Injury claims

See our personal injury guide and whiplash guide.

Accident management

See our homepage for how VIP Claims works, or get in touch for a specific question.

Talking to VIP Claims is free and puts you under no obligation. We are an independent, UK-based accident management company — not an insurer. If your accident wasn't your fault, we can arrange a like-for-like replacement vehicle, manage repairs at an approved bodyshop, and recover all costs from the at-fault driver's insurer, protecting your no-claims bonus and keeping your excess in your pocket. Speak to a specialist or start your claim online.

Frequently asked questions

What is a non-fault accident?
One where you weren't legally responsible. Even without the other driver's admission, non-fault status is decided on the evidence.
Will my premium go up after a non-fault claim?
It can, but usually less than a fault claim — especially if you claim through the at-fault insurer rather than your own.
Do I have to use my own insurer?
No — you can claim directly against the at-fault driver's insurance.
What is a like-for-like replacement vehicle?
A vehicle of the same class as yours (SUV for SUV, van for van) provided for as long as you are without your own.
How do I dispute a low write-off valuation?
Provide 3–5 live like-for-like adverts, submit in writing, escalate to a formal complaint and then to the Financial Ombudsman.
What is Cat S?
A vehicle written off with structural damage that can be repaired and returned to the road after professional repair and re-registration.
What is Cat N?
A vehicle written off with non-structural (cosmetic, mechanical, electrical) damage that can be repaired and returned to the road.
Can I keep my written-off car?
Usually yes for Cat S and Cat N; never for Cat A or Cat B.
How is fault decided?
By insurers, using the Highway Code, evidence, precedent and industry codes. The police only decide criminal matters.
What is split liability?
Fault shared between drivers (60/40, 50/50 etc). You recover the percentage attributable to the other driver.
How much is a whiplash claim worth?
Between roughly £240 and £4,215 under the 2021 tariff for injury durations of up to 24 months.
Do I need a solicitor for a whiplash claim?
Not for OIC portal cases under £5,000. Yes for higher-value or complex injuries.
How long does a repair claim take?
1–3 weeks for drivable vehicles, 3–6 weeks for heavily damaged.
How long does an injury claim take?
6–12 months for whiplash, 9–18 for traditional injury, 2–5 years for serious cases.
Do I have to pay for a replacement vehicle?
No, in a valid non-fault claim. If asked for up-front payment, walk away.
What if the other driver drove off?
Report to police immediately and claim through the Motor Insurers' Bureau — see our [hit and run guide](/guides/hit-and-run).
What if the other driver is uninsured?
Claim through the MIB's Uninsured Drivers Agreement.
Can I claim as a passenger?
Yes — passengers are almost always non-fault and claim against the driver's insurer.
Can VIP Claims help if I'm partly at fault?
Yes — split liability claims are recoverable up to the other driver's proportion.
Are accident management companies regulated?
Yes — via the Financial Conduct Authority for claims management activity.
Do I have to accept the insurer's approved repairer?
No — you can choose your own bodyshop.
What is diminished value?
The residual loss in resale value after a proper repair, claimable from the at-fault insurer in non-fault cases.
Does a repair show on HPI?
Repair-only claims usually don't; total-loss decisions do.
What is ADAS calibration?
The realignment of driver-assistance sensors after a repair. Essential on modern cars whenever a related sensor was disturbed.
Do I get a courtesy car if I'm at fault?
Only if your policy includes one — typically comprehensive cover while your car is being repaired.
Can I claim for damaged personal items?
Yes — child seats, phones, laptops, luggage in the vehicle at the time.
Can I claim loss of earnings?
Yes — with evidence (payslips, tax returns), you can recover net lost earnings.
What if I hit a parked car?
You're liable, but if the parked vehicle was illegally parked or obstructing, liability may be reduced.
What if I hit an animal?
Livestock (horse, cow, sheep, pig, goat) must be reported to police. Wild animals need not, though your insurer will want to know.
What if I'm hit by a foreign vehicle?
Recoverable through the MIB and Green Card system — takes longer but works.
What if the accident was hit-and-run in a car park?
Check for CCTV, doorbell cameras and ANPR. Claim through your own insurance or the MIB if the driver isn't traced.
Is my private plate transferred if my car is written off?
Only if you retain it in advance using form V317. Don't leave it late.
Do I have to report to the police?
Only if someone is injured, the road is blocked, details weren't exchanged, or you suspect drink/drugs. Otherwise, notify your insurer.
What if my insurance is invalid?
You may still be personally liable. In some cases, you can still claim through the MIB. Speak to a specialist.
Does GAP insurance cover the shortfall?
Yes — GAP covers the difference between the insurer's payout and your outstanding finance.
What is the Financial Ombudsman Service?
A free, independent body that resolves complaints against insurers. Decisions are binding on the insurer.
How long do I have to complain to my insurer?
Six months from their final response. Complain within 8 weeks first.
Does dashcam footage help?
Yes — it settles most disputed cases quickly.
Do I have to give footage to the police?
If a crime is being investigated, yes. It typically helps your own case.
Can I claim if my helmet was damaged?
Yes — motorcyclists must replace helmets after any impact, and it's recoverable from the at-fault insurer.

Talk to a specialist — free, no obligation

VIP Claims is an independent UK accident management company. We help drivers get a like-for-like replacement vehicle, choose their own repairer and protect their no-claims bonus after a non-fault accident.

Ask a Question 0330 320 0290 Message us

Related guides

Claims Process
Non-Fault Accident Guide: Your Rights & Options

If someone else caused your accident, you don't have to go through your own insurer — and doing so can cost you your excess and your no-claims bonus. Here's what to do instead.

Your Vehicle
Write-Offs & Total Loss: The Complete UK Guide

What Cat A, B, S and N mean, how insurers calculate your settlement, how to challenge a low valuation, and when you can keep and repair your vehicle.

Your Vehicle
Replacement Vehicle Guide: Courtesy Cars & Like-for-Like Hire

What a 'courtesy car' really is, when you're entitled to a like-for-like replacement, credit hire explained, and how to avoid the common traps.

Liability & Fault
Liability Explained: Who Is at Fault & How Split Liability Works

How insurers decide fault, why split-liability outcomes happen, common scenarios, and what a 50/50 verdict really means for your claim.

Your Vehicle
Car Repair Process: Insurance Repairs, Approved Repairers & Your Rights

How insurance repairs actually work — approved repairer networks, choosing your own bodyshop, parts, warranties and dealing with poor-quality repairs.

Injury & Health
Personal Injury Claims After a Road Accident

Types of injury covered, the claims process, the OIC portal for whiplash under £5,000, and what a full personal injury claim covers.

Claims Process
How Long Does an Insurance Claim Take?

Realistic timelines for repair claims, total losses, and injury claims — plus what causes delays and how to speed things up.

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Third-Party Claims: Claiming Against the Other Driver's Insurance

How to claim directly against the at-fault driver's insurance, what you can recover, and why this route protects your NCB and excess.