How Long Does a Car Insurance Claim Take?

The time it takes to process a car insurance claim varies based on the severity of the incident, the insurer’s procedures, and whether liability is disputed. Here’s an estimated timeline for different types of claims:

• Minor accident (no disputes, minor damage): 1 to 2 weeks

• Non-fault accident (other party accepts liability): 2 to 4 weeks

• Fault accident (where liability is unclear): 4 to 8 weeks

• Stolen vehicle claim: 4 to 6 weeks

• Personal injury claim: 3 months to 1 year or longer

• Total loss (write-off) claim: 3 to 6 weeks

• The more complex the claim, the longer it will take.

Types of Car Insurance Claims and Their Timelines

1. Minor Accidents with No Disputes (1-2 Weeks): If the accident involves minimal damage and both parties agree on fault, claims are processed quickly.

Typical steps involved:

• Report the claim to your insurer.

• Provide evidence (photos, witness statements).

• Receive an estimate for repairs.

• The insurer approves the claim and pays out or arranges repairs.

How to speed it up:

• Provide all necessary documents and photos immediately.

• Use an approved repair shop to avoid delays.

2. Non-Fault Accidents (2-4 Weeks): If the other driver was responsible and accepts liability, your insurer will recover costs from their provider.

Delays may occur if:

• The third-party insurer disputes liability.

• The other driver fails to report the accident.

• There is a lack of clear evidence.

How to speed it up:

• Gather strong evidence (dashcam footage, police reports, witness statements).

• Contact the third-party insurer if your insurer is waiting for their response.

3. Fault Accidents (4-8 Weeks or Longer): If you were at fault, your insurer will handle the claim but may take longer to:

• Assess the damage and cost of repairs.

• Pay out compensation to the third party.

• Disputes over liability can extend the process significantly.

How to speed it up:

• Cooperate fully with your insurer and provide detailed information.

• Accept fault if it’s clear to avoid lengthy investigations.

4. Stolen Vehicle Claims (4-6 Weeks): If your car has been stolen, insurers typically wait 30 days to see if it is recovered before processing a payout.

Steps involved:

• Report the theft to the police and insurer immediately.

• Obtain a crime reference number.

• If the car isn’t found within 30 days, the insurer may pay out based on its market value.

How to speed it up:

• Provide the insurer with all necessary documents, including V5C logbook and service history.

5. Personal Injury Claims (3 Months to Over a Year): If you’re claiming for injuries after an accident, the process takes much longer because:

• Medical assessments are required.

• Compensation depends on the severity of injuries and recovery time.

• Negotiations with third-party insurers can be complex.

How to speed it up:

• Get medical evidence as soon as possible.

• Hire a legal expert if the claim is disputed.

6. Write-Off Claims (3-6 Weeks): If your car is deemed a total loss, the insurer will pay based on its market value.

Steps involved:

• An assessor evaluates the damage.

• The insurer calculates the current market value.

• A payout offer is made (which you can negotiate if too low).

How to speed it up:

• Provide the insurer with evidence of your car’s condition before the accident (service history, receipts for upgrades).

What Can Delay a Car Insurance Claim?

Several factors can slow down the process, including:

1. Incomplete Documentation

• Missing photos, accident reports, or witness statements.

• Failure to submit required forms on time.

• Keep detailed records of the accident and submit all documents immediately.

2. Dispute Liability

• If the other party denies fault, insurers may take weeks or months to investigate.

• A lack of evidence makes it harder to prove your case.

Solution: Use dashcam footage, police reports, and witness statements to strengthen your claim.

3. Waiting for Third-Party Insurers

• If the other driver’s insurer delays processing, your claim may take longer.

Solution: Contact the third-party insurer directly to speed up their response.

4. Insurer Worload

• During busy periods (e.g., winter months with increased accidents), processing times may be slower.

Solution: File your claim as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.

How to Speed Up Your Car Insurance Claim

• Report the claim immediately – The sooner you notify your insurer, the faster the process begins.

• Provide detailed evidence – Clear accident photos, witness statements, and police reports help avoid disputes.

• Use an insurer-approved repairer – Many insurers have preferred garages that can process claims faster.

• Follow up regularly – Keep in touch with your insurer and ask for updates.

• Negotiate if necessary – If your payout is too low, challenge the insurer with proof of your car’s value.

At RoadXpert, we help drivers navigate the claims process efficiently, ensuring a smooth resolution.

How to Maximise Your Compensation

• Seek medical attention immediately – Document your injuries with doctors.

• Keep all financial records – Save bills, invoices, and payslips.

• Work with a personal injury solicitor – They can negotiate a higher payout.

• Be patient – Don’t accept a low offer too quickly.

• Provide strong evidence – The better your proof, the stronger your case.

At RoadXpert, we help drivers maximise their compensation by ensuring their claims are properly documented and handled efficiently.

How RoadXpert Can Help Car Insurance Claims

At RoadXpert, we:

• Provide expert advice on resolving disputes.

• Offer competitive car insurance policies to keep you protected.

• If you need help with filing a claim, dealing with delays, or finding better insurance, we’re here to assist.

Visit www.roadxpert.com today for expert support and car insurance solutions.