Accident Claims FAQs
Find straightforward answers about non-fault claims, vehicle recovery, liability, replacement vehicles, accident repairs and what happens after you contact Recova.
What Is a Non-Fault Accident?
It generally means evidence indicates another party was responsible and the related claim costs may be recoverable from that party or insurer.
Liability is not confirmed simply because one driver says the accident was not their fault.
Do I Have to Tell My Insurer?
You must report the accident to your motor insurer even when you are not intending to make a claim under your own policy.
Check the reporting requirements and timescales stated in your policy.
Will I Have to Pay My Insurance Excess?
This depends on how the claim is progressed.
When claiming under your own policy, your policy excess may initially apply. A separate non-fault accident-management route may operate differently, but eligibility and agreement terms must be checked before proceeding.
Do not state “no excess” on the website unless the exact circumstances and limitations are explained.
Am I Guaranteed a Replacement Vehicle?
No. Availability depends on matters including:
- Accident circumstances
- Liability evidence
- Your need for a vehicle
- Vehicle availability
- Repair status
- The agreement offered
- Whether the associated costs are considered reasonable
The terms should be explained before the vehicle is accepted.
Do I Have to Tell My Insurer?
You must report the accident to your motor insurer even when you are not intending to make a claim under your own policy.
Check the reporting requirements and timescales stated in your policy.
Is a Replacement Vehicle the Same as a Courtesy Car?
Not necessarily.
A courtesy car is normally supplied under the terms of your own motor policy and may be a small standard vehicle.
A replacement vehicle supplied by an accident-management provider may be provided under a separate credit-hire or similar agreement. Different costs, obligations and risks can apply.
Could I Be Responsible for Replacement Vehicle Costs?
Potentially, depending on the agreement and outcome.
Under some credit-hire arrangements, the provider attempts to recover charges from the at-fault insurer. There is no guarantee that all charges will be recovered, particularly where liability or costs are disputed. Customers must receive a clear explanation of this risk before signing.
Can Recova Recover My Vehicle?
Recova can collect suitable accident-damaged cars and light vans, subject to vehicle dimensions, weight, condition, location and safe loading requirements.
Tell us about damaged wheels, steering problems, deployed airbags, missing keys and fluid leaks when booking.
Who Decides Whether My Vehicle Is Repaired?
The decision may involve the insurer, engineer, accident-management provider and repair facility.
They will consider the damage, repair cost, vehicle value, safety and relevant agreement or policy terms.
What Happens if My Vehicle Is Written Off?
You may receive a settlement based on the assessed pre-accident market value, subject to the relevant policy or claim route.
You should review the valuation carefully and provide comparable vehicle evidence where you believe the proposed amount is inaccurate.
Can I Choose My Repairer?
Repairer choice depends on the route being used and applicable policy or agreement terms.
Using a non-approved repairer under your own policy can sometimes affect authorisation, guarantees, excesses or the amount the insurer is prepared to pay. Obtain written confirmation before instructing repairs.
What Happens if Liability Is Disputed?
Additional evidence may be requested, including:
- Dashcam footage
- Photographs
- Witness statements
- Vehicle damage reports
- Police information
- Road layout evidence
- Written accident accounts
Replacement vehicle or repair arrangements may also be affected if the claim cannot proceed as initially expected.
What if the Other Driver Was Uninsured or Left the Scene?
The Motor Insurers’ Bureau may be able to assist people injured or suffering property damage because of an uninsured or unidentified hit-and-run driver, subject to its criteria. The incident should also be reported appropriately to the police and insurer.
Can You Help With Personal Injury?
Recova should not provide personal injury legal advice unless appropriately authorised.
Where requested, eligible customers can be introduced to an appropriately regulated solicitor or claims provider. Customers should be told who the provider is and how their details will be used before information is transferred.
How Much Does the Service Cost?
Costs depend on the services required and the arrangement used.
Recovery may be charged directly, included within an eligible claim arrangement or pursued from another insurer. Replacement vehicle and repair agreements may also contain separate financial terms.
All potential charges and responsibilities should be explained before the customer agrees.
Need Vehicle Recovery Now?
Whether you’ve broken down, been involved in an accident or need a vehicle transported, Recova is ready to help. Call our team now for fast, professional vehicle recovery across Burnley, Lancashire and the surrounding areas.
