Accidents Involving a Stolen Vehicle Claim
Stolen Car Insurance Claim Process
When working with accidents involving a stolen vehicle claim, great care must be taken to ensure you follow the most effective compensation strategy. Being involved in a traffic accident can be a life-altering event and if you were injured in an accident involving a stolen vehicle, you are entitled to compensation.
The Scottish Highway Code states that drivers are required to stop and exchange contact info if they are involved in a road traffic accident. In the unusual occurrence that a driver is unable to stop, they are permitted a 24-hour window to report the incident to the police. In rare cases, one of the vehicles involved in the accident may be stolen. As you could imagine, a joy riding car thief is unlikely to pull to the side of the road and exchange personal information with anyone. When this happens there is still hope for the victim.
Motor Insurer’s Bureau
The MIB was established in 1946 with one purpose in mind – “to reduce the level and impact of uninsured driving in the UK”. Recent government traffic statistics reveal £400 million per year is lost to uninsured driving accidents. Accidents involving a stolen vehicle, or hit-and-run scenarios, require lodging a claim with the MIB to obtain compensation. The stolen car insurance claim process can take longer than a traditional claim and in most cases; the amount of compensation awarded is less. Prior to making your claim with the MIB, there are some steps you will be required to make.
Check to Make Sure the Other Driver is Insured
The askMID Service (http://www.askmid.com/) allows you to confirm the insurance status of a vehicle. If a driver is withholding their insurance information, you can use this website to verify their coverage. A search can be done immediately at the scene of a road traffic accident. If the other vehicles information is not available, you can still file a claim.
Collect Driver and Vehicle Details
Collecting drivers and vehicle details is important. In most accidents involving stolen vehicles, you will not have access to the name and address of the other driver. Try to gather as much detail about the vehicle as possible.
- Year
- Make
- Model
- Color
Other Useful Information
Since the driver of the stolen car is probably not going to stop without the assistance of the police, you are going to want to gather as much additional information about the incident as possible. This can include:
- Date
- Time
- Location
- Driver’s Actions
- Witness Information and Statements
- Security Camera Footage
Know Your Rights
If the other party refuses to provide adequate proof of insurance, you can file a formal complaint with the police department. The Scottish Highway Code states; a refusal to give insurance information is a criminal offence.
Vehicle Damage
You should claim property damages and vehicle repairs through your insurer. Your insurer will require you to come in for a damage assessment. Depending on the type of coverage you have, you may be able to choose what shop does your repairs.
If Someone Has Been Injured
The MIB may be able to help if someone has been injured. The MIB can source treatments and provide other forms of assistance once your claim is filed. Our team of experts at Claim Solutions Scotland Ltd make the stolen car insurance claim process stress free.
Show Your Losses
You will be required to show proof of the losses you are claiming. Keep all of your receipts -including travel and medication costs. The MIB will ask for details from your insurer about the losses they have incurred. Getting at least two repair estimates can strengthen your claim and help to show the damages you are claiming are justified.
How Long Do I Have to File My Claim?
If you have been personally injured in a stolen vehicle accident you have up to 3 years to file your claim. It is always better to start your claim sooner rather than later.
How Does the MIB Decide Compensation Amounts?
The MIB will examine the circumstances around your accident and the evidence you provide them. Your evidence should prove that the untraceable driver caused the accident. You will also need to provide evidence supporting your medical injuries and how they have affected your quality of life. This can include recovery, rehabilitation, and permanent damage to your body. Any financial losses due to medical costs should be included as well. You will be asked to show “causation” or how your injuries were a result of the accident. Claim Solutions Scotland Ltd can advise you on the best strategy to follow during the stolen vehicle accident claim process to increase the compensation you are awarded.
How long Does it Take to Receive My Stolen Car Accident Claim
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Each accident must be examined on an individual basis to determine the facts. Dealings with the MIB take longer than dealing with a traditional insurer. The MIB will require an intensive amount of documentation and having a claim specialist can make the burden of providing the required information easier.
No Win No Fee
Claim Solutions Scotland Ltd is confident in your claim. If we are unable to secure you compensation, we will waive our fees. This is a CFA or Conditional Fee Agreement. Being involved in an accident with a stolen vehicle is traumatic.
How Claim Solutions Scotland Ltd Can Help Your Stolen Vehicle Accident Claim
Claim Solutions Scotland Ltd can provide you with the expert advice you need to maximize your compensation. We understand the subtle nuances of the Scottish Highway Code and if you have been injured in a stolen vehicle accident, our team of experts can help you to get the compensation you deserve. Contact us to start your claim today.
Contact Us
Contact us to start the claims process today.