Non-Fault Accident? What to Do Before You Call Your Insurer

Being involved in a non-fault accident is stressful. Even when you know the accident wasn’t your fault, the aftermath can feel confusing — especially when you’re unsure who to call first or what to say.

One of the most important things to understand is this:

The first decision you make after a non-fault accident can shape your entire repair experience.

Before you pick up the phone to your insurer, it helps to know your options.

First: What Is a Non-Fault Accident?

A non-fault accident generally means:

• Another driver caused the collision

• Their insurer is responsible for the costs

• You should not be financially disadvantaged

Common examples include:

• Being hit from behind

• Damage while your car was parked

• Another driver pulling out into you

• Clear liability incidents supported by evidence

Even though you weren’t at fault, how the claim is handled still matters.

The Most Common Mistake Drivers Make

Most drivers do the same thing:

They call their insurer immediately — without understanding their rights.

While insurers can be helpful, that first call often places the claim into a pre-set process, which may include:

• Being directed to a “preferred” repairer

• Having repair decisions driven by insurer contracts

• Losing control over where and how the car is repaired

This doesn’t mean insurers are doing anything wrong — but it does mean you should be informed before the process begins.

You Can Choose Where Your Car Is Repaired

Even after a non-fault accident, you are usually entitled to choose your own repairer.

This is important because:

• Your vehicle’s safety systems must be repaired correctly

• Modern cars often require ADAS calibration after damage

• Repair quality can affect resale value and safety

An independent repairer works for you, not an insurer network.

Why Speaking to a Repair Specialist Before Your Insurer Helps

Talking to a repair specialist early can help you:

• Understand what damage to look out for

• Know what questions insurers may ask

• Protect your right to choose a repairer

• Avoid being rushed into decisions

It doesn’t stop you from making a claim — it simply means you do so with clarity.

What If You’ve Already Called Your Insurer?

Don’t worry — it’s not too late.

Even if you’ve already notified your insurer, you can still:

• Ask who your repair options are

• Request to use your chosen bodyshop

• Pause the process while you get advice

Many drivers assume the process is locked in — often, it isn’t.

Will a Non-Fault Accident Affect My No-Claims Bonus?

Handled correctly, a non-fault accident should not reduce your no-claims bonus once costs are recovered from the at-fault party.

However:

• Claims can temporarily show on records

• Excess may be paid initially and recovered later

• Insurers may treat claims differently depending on policy

This is another reason clarity early on matters.

What You Should Have Ready

If you’ve been involved in a non-fault accident, it helps to gather:

• Your vehicle registration

• Date, time, and location of the accident

• Photos of the damage (if safe to take)

• The other driver’s details

This information makes the process smoother — whichever route you take.

A Calm, Informed First Step

You don’t need to rush.
You don’t need to argue.
You just need the right information early.

Many drivers choose to speak to a repair specialist before calling their insurer so they can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.

Helpful next steps:

• Learn more about non-fault accident repairs

• Understand your right to choose a repairer

• Get clear advice before making that first call

If you want guidance, we’re always happy to help — with no pressure and no obligation.