At Harris Fowler, we understand how distressing it can be to suffer injuries in a road traffic accident, especially when the driver responsible is uninsured or cannot be traced.
Fortunately, if you find yourself in this situation, you may still be able to claim compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).
What is the MIB?
The Motor Insurers’ Bureau is a not-for-profit organisation set up to compensate victims of road accidents caused by uninsured or untraced drivers in England and Wales.
The MIB is funded by contributions from insurance companies, and all UK motor insurers are required by law to be members.
There are two main schemes under which personal injury claims can be brought:
- The Uninsured Drivers’ Agreement
- The Untraced Drivers’ Agreement
The Uninsured Drivers’ Agreement
If the at-fault driver is identified but has no insurance, the Uninsured Drivers’ Agreement allows you to claim for:
- Personal injury
- Vehicle damage
- Property damage
The MIB will effectively step in as the “insurer” and assess your claim much like a traditional insurer would. However, there are specific requirements:
- The accident must be reported to the police promptly
- You must not have known the driver was uninsured
- You will need to provide evidence to support your injuries and losses
The Untraced Drivers’ Agreement
If the driver flees the scene and cannot be identified (commonly referred to as a hit and run) you may still be eligible for compensation under the Untraced Drivers’ Agreement. This scheme covers personal injury but has stricter requirements:
- The accident must be reported to the police within 14 days of the incident
- A claim must usually be submitted within 3 years of the accident (or within 3 years of turning 18 for minors)
- Claims for property damage may only be accepted if there is significant personal injury and meet specific criteria
Why Legal Advice Matters
Claims under the MIB schemes can be complex, especially when it comes to evidence, medical reports, and meeting strict time limits. At Harris Fowler, we have extensive experience handling MIB claims. We will:
- Ensure your claim is submitted correctly and promptly
- Gather medical and witness evidence
- Liaise with the MIB on your behalf
At Harris Fowler Solicitors, we specialise in personal injury claims and have extensive experience helping clients across England and Wales secure the compensation they deserve.
Our expert team can guide you through every step of the process, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, and fighting for your rights.
We offer a No Win, No Fee service, giving you peace of mind while pursuing your case. If you’ve been injured as a result of an untraced or uninsured driver, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.