Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful experience, and it could become even more complicated if the other vehicle involved is foreign-registered. If you find yourself in this situation, knowing how to handle the aftermath is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you’re in an accident with a foreign-registered vehicle in the UK.
Gather information from the other driver
It is crucial to collect as much information as possible from the other driver, including:
- Name, address and contact details
- Insurance details
- Foreign vehicle registration number
- Make, model, and colour of the car
- Driver’s licence details
- Details of the accident (including location, time, and date)
Although the other driver may have a foreign license plate, they are still required to provide this information under UK law. If there is a language barrier, try to communicate as best as you can, or use Google Translate on your mobile phone if necessary.
Photographs and notes
If you are able, take pictures of the accident, any damage to both vehicles, road conditions, and any relevant signage.
If there are any witnesses, try to obtain their name and contact details as they might provide important evidence later. These photos and notes will be invaluable for both your insurance claims and your legal case. It is also important to take note of the location of the accident.
Contact the Police
In the UK, you are required to report accidents to the police if there are injuries or significant damage. If the other vehicle is foreign-registered, the police can assist in recording the incident and the insurance details.
If the foreign-registered vehicle leaves the scene without providing its details, this would be considered a "hit and run," and you must report it to the police immediately.
Notify your Insurance Company
You must inform your own insurer about the accident as soon as possible. The fact that the other vehicle is foreign-registered shouldn’t make a difference, but it may mean that the claims process could take a little longer. Provide your insurer with all the details you've collected and any evidence you’ve gathered, such as photos and witness statements.
Your insurer may attempt to recover the costs from the foreign driver’s insurer on your behalf. However, if your insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage, they might cover the repair costs upfront, while they pursue reimbursement.
Dealing with Foreign Insurance Companies
If the other driver is from an EU or EEA country, their insurance should still be valid in the UK, and you can deal directly with their insurer. Many foreign insurers have UK-based handlers to be able to deal with claims from the UK.
Making a claim to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB)
If the driver is from a country outside of the EU/EEA, the driver leaves the scene, is uninsured or untraceable, the situation may be more complicated. In these situations, the claim can be submitted to the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB), which handles claims involving foreign-registered vehicles in the UK. The MIB can ‘step into the shoes’ of the third-party insurers and help you recover damages if the other party’s insurer is uncooperative, uninsured or difficult to trace. It is essential to provide as much evidence as possible to substantiate your claim.
If you have been involved in a road traffic accident, and require legal advice, call us today on 0800 988 8082 or complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
