Hit & Run / Uninsured Driver

Hit and run and uninsured driver claims are pursued through the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB), a statutory body funded by UK motor insurers. The MIB ensures that victims of uninsured and untraced drivers can still receive compensation.

There are two MIB schemes: the Uninsured Drivers Agreement (where the driver is identified but has no insurance) and the Untraced Drivers Agreement (hit and run where the driver cannot be found). The application process and compensation differ between the two.

For uninsured driver claims, the MIB pays compensation equivalent to what an insurer would pay. For untraced driver claims, the MIB applies its own assessment process and compensation may be lower. Property damage is only covered in uninsured driver claims, not untraced driver claims.

Key requirements include reporting the accident to the police (within 14 days for MIB claims), making reasonable efforts to identify the driver, and cooperating with MIB's investigation. Claims must be brought within 3 years of the accident for uninsured drivers. Untraced driver claims must be made within 3 years but have specific procedural requirements.

Compensation mirrors standard personal injury awards for uninsured driver claims. Untraced driver claims use a tariff-based system for minor injuries but standard damages for serious injuries. Awards range from £1,000 for minor injuries to several million pounds for catastrophic injuries.