Being involved in a road traffic accident can be a traumatic experience, and we at UK Claims know that it becomes even more challenging when the responsible driver cannot be traced. Fortunately, there are many avenues available for victims to seek compensation and justice. In today’’s blog, we will explore the process of bringing a claim against untraced drivers, drawing information from the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB), a vital resource for victims in such circumstances.
It can seem overwhelming to understand at first, but let’s start with the basics. The Motor Insurers' Bureau is an organisation established by the UK government and the motor insurance industry to provide compensation to victims of road traffic accidents involving untraced or uninsured drivers. The MIB acts as a safety net, ensuring that innocent victims can still pursue a claim for their damages and injuries, even if the responsible driver cannot be identified.
Additionally, The MIB operates under the Untraced Drivers' Agreement, a legal framework that governs the process of compensating victims of accidents involving untraced drivers. This agreement outlines the eligibility criteria and the steps involved in making a claim. Understanding the UDA and its provisions is crucial for navigating the claims process successfully. This is something that we are well versed in and can help with.
The first step in bringing a claim against an untraced driver is to report the accident to the police as soon as possible. It is absolutely crucial to act fast and to provide all relevant details and any available evidence, such as witness statements, photographs, and CCTV footage, to support your claim. The police report will be essential in establishing the circumstances of the accident and initiating the claims process.
Once you’ve gathered evidence, to initiate a claim against an untraced driver, victims must complete and submit an application to the MIB. The application should include all relevant details of the accident, injuries sustained, and any supporting evidence. The MIB will then review the application and undertake the relevant investigations to determine liability and the amount of payable compensation. If the liability is accepted, they will work to reach a fair settlement with the victim, taking into account the extent of the injuries, financial losses, and other relevant factors.
While it is possible to navigate the claims process without legal representation, seeking the guidance of an experienced personal injury lawyer can significantly increase the chances of a successful outcome. A lawyer, such as us here at UK Claims, that specialises in motor vehicle accidents and MIB claims, can provide invaluable advice, handle the complex legal procedures, and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Overall, bringing a claim against an untraced driver can be a complex, challenging and stressful process. However, with the assistance and the guidance of UK Claims, victims of such accidents can pursue compensation and justice with ease. By understanding the role of the MIB, following the necessary steps, and seeking legal advice, you can navigate the claims process with confidence and increase your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
As with most cases, we work with the 3 year limit. This means you normally have 3 years to start your clinical negligence or personal injury claim. There are some exceptions to the 3 year rule though – and sometimes the time limit is shorter. If you think you have a claim, it’s important to contact us as soon as possible.