Not surprisingly, there are many things running through your mind after you’ve just been involved in a car accident; the first could be how the accident will affect your car insurance premiums, and the next may be how you will manage without your car if it’s deemed to be unroadworthy.
With that in mind, here is some simple advice on how fault is determined following an accident, and what you should do if you need a replacement vehicle.
How insurance companies determine fault
Insurance companies will begin their investigations following the report of the collision, and they will take statements from the drivers and passengers involved, and any witnesses. They will also view photographs of the accident scene and any damage caused to vehicles; so it’s important to provide your insurance company with all relevant information from the beginning of the process.
Once all the information has been collated, the insurance company will decide how the accident occurred, what the cause appears to have been, and who was at fault.
What to do if you disagree with a fault determination
You have the right to disagree with a fault determination and to appeal the decision. Check with the relevant insurance company in relation to their appeal process as each insurance company will have a different procedure.
A third-party mediator may be brought in to hear your appeal where you will be able to state your case and provide evidence as to why you believe the fault determination is incorrect. The mediator will then review all the evidence presented and will make a final decision which all parties are required to abide by.
What to do about a replacement vehicle
Being involved in a car accident is stressful, but getting a replacement vehicle while yours is repaired needn’t be. At Not My Fault, we’re committed to providing you with a replacement vehicle as similar as possible to your own car, because you shouldn’t have to drive an inferior car to your own if the accident wasn’t your fault.
Best of all, if it’s deemed that the fault lies with another driver involved in the collision, you’ll more than likely be able to claim the cost of hiring a replacement vehicle against their insurance.
So, if you’re involved in a “not my fault” car accident, contact Not My Fault and we’ll help you get back on the road as quickly as possible.
