What Happens If You Make A Car Insurance Claim?

Introduction

Most drivers hope they never need to make a car insurance claim.

However, understanding the claims process before an accident occurs can help reduce stress and avoid surprises if something does happen.

Whether the incident involves another vehicle, theft, vandalism, or accidental damage, insurers follow a structured process when assessing claims.

This guide explains what typically happens when you make a car insurance claim and how it may affect your future insurance costs.

What This Guide Covers

This guide explains:

• When you should contact your insurer

• What information insurers may require

• How claims are assessed

• What happens after a claim

• How claims may affect future premiums

Understanding the process can help drivers feel more confident if they ever need to make a claim.

What Is A Car Insurance Claim?

A claim is a request made to your insurer asking them to provide financial assistance following an insured event.

Examples may include:

• Road traffic accidents

• Vehicle theft

• Fire damage

• Vandalism

• Storm damage

• Windscreen damage

The type of cover you have will determine what protection may be available.

When Should You Contact Your Insurer?

Most insurers require policyholders to report incidents as soon as reasonably possible.

Even if:

• You do not intend to claim

• Damage appears minor

• Another driver accepts responsibility

your insurer may still require notification.

Always check your policy wording for reporting requirements.

What Information Will You Need?

Insurers may ask for details such as:

Incident Information

• Date and time

• Location

• Description of what happened

Vehicle Information

• Registration numbers

• Vehicle details

Third Party Information

• Names

• Contact details

• Insurance details

Evidence

• Photographs

• Dashcam footage

• Witness details

Providing accurate information can help speed up the claims process.

What Happens After You Report A Claim?

The insurer will usually:

Review The Circumstances

They may assess:

• Liability

• Policy coverage

• Supporting evidence

Appoint Repairers

Where appropriate, approved repairers may inspect the vehicle.

Assess Costs

Repair estimates may be obtained before authorising work.

Communicate Decisions

The insurer will normally explain the next steps and any settlement arrangements.

What Is Excess?

Most policies include an excess.

This is the amount you agree to contribute towards a claim.

For example:

If repairs cost:

£1,500

and your total excess is:

£300

you may be responsible for paying the first £300.

The insurer may cover the remaining amount, subject to policy terms.

For more information, see:

What Is Excess On Car Insurance And How Does It Work?

Will A Claim Affect My No Claims Bonus?

It may.

Depending on:

• The type of claim

• Who was responsible

• Whether No Claims Protection applies

your No Claims Bonus may be reduced.

Some insurers operate different step-back systems after claims.

Will My Premium Increase?

Possibly.

Many drivers are surprised to learn that premiums can increase following a claim, even when they were not responsible for the accident.

Insurers assess a range of risk factors when calculating future premiums.

A previous claim may influence future pricing decisions.

What If The Vehicle Is Written Off?

If repair costs exceed the insurer's assessment of the vehicle's value, the vehicle may be declared a total loss (often called a write-off).

In these situations, insurers generally assess:

• Vehicle age

• Condition

• Mileage

• Market value

Settlement terms vary between insurers and policies.

Common Questions

Do I have to tell my insurer about every accident?

Many insurers require all incidents to be reported, even if no claim is made.

How long does a claim take?

Timescales vary depending on the circumstances, evidence, and complexity of the claim.

Will I lose my No Claims Bonus?

Possibly, unless your insurer's rules or No Claims Protection arrangements apply.

Can I choose my own repairer?

Some insurers allow this, while others may encourage the use of approved repair networks.

Always check your policy terms.

Why Understanding The Claims Process Matters

Knowing what happens after an accident can help drivers respond calmly and make informed decisions.

Understanding your policy, excess, and claims obligations before an incident occurs can help avoid

misunderstandings and delays if you ever need to make a claim.

Learn More

• How UK Car Insurance Works

• What Affects Your Car Insurance Premium?

• How To Compare Car Insurance Safely Online

• What Is Excess On Car Insurance And How Does It Work?

• What Is No Claims Bonus And How Does It Work?

• Comprehensive vs Third-Party: What's the Difference?

• Named Drivers Explained: How They Affect Your Car Insurance