How to claim after a hit-and-run or uninsured driver
If you were hit by a driver who cannot be traced or who has no insurance, you can still claim through the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB). Being hit by an untraced or uninsured driver does not mean you are left with nothing. Reporting to the police quickly and gathering evidence gives your claim the best footing.
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Contents
What is the Motor Insurers' Bureau?
The Motor Insurers' Bureau, or MIB, is a body that compensates people injured by untraced or uninsured drivers. It exists so victims are not left without any route to a claim.
For a rider, that means a hit-and-run or a collision with an uninsured driver does not automatically close the door. There is a recognised process to follow, and specialist solicitors handle these claims regularly.
What are the two MIB schemes?
The MIB runs two schemes. The Untraced Drivers Agreement covers unknown or hit-and-run drivers who cannot be identified.
The Uninsured Drivers Agreement covers a driver who is identified but has no valid insurance. Which scheme applies depends on whether the other driver can be traced, and each has its own procedures to follow.
Why report to the police quickly?
Report the accident to the police as soon as possible and get a crime reference number. For an untraced-driver claim, this step is important, and it is best to report within 14 days.
A prompt police report and crime reference number help show the accident happened as described. Leaving it too long can make an untraced-driver claim harder, so reporting early protects your position.
What evidence should I gather?
Gather as much as you safely can. Witness details, dashcam or CCTV footage, and photos of the scene, your bike and your injuries all help.
With an untraced driver there is no insurer on the other side to fill in the gaps, so your own evidence carries more weight. Independent witnesses and video footage can make a real difference to how the MIB assesses the claim.
What can the MIB compensate for?
The MIB can compensate for personal injury caused by an untraced or uninsured driver. This is the core of most rider claims.
It can also cover property damage in certain circumstances, such as damage to your motorcycle and gear. The rules around property damage differ between the two schemes, which is one reason specialist advice helps.
Are there strict time limits and procedures?
Yes. The schemes have strict procedures and time limits that must be followed for a claim to succeed. Missing a requirement can affect your claim.
Because the rules are detailed, a specialist solicitor who regularly handles MIB claims can help you meet the requirements and present the evidence in the right way. The general 3-year time limit for personal injury also applies.
How can Bike Crash Claims help?
Bike Crash Claims introduces riders who had a non-fault accident to regulated specialist solicitors and motorcycle accident specialists. We are not solicitors and do not give legal advice ourselves.
If you were hit by an untraced or uninsured driver, we can connect you with solicitors who handle MIB claims, often on a no win no fee basis. Being hit by someone who cannot be traced or has no insurance does not mean you are left with nothing.
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Every accident is unique. Speak to our specialist team for a no-obligation assessment of your case.
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This guide is general information about motorcycle accident claims in the UK. It is not legal or financial advice. Bike Crash Claims is an introducer: we connect riders with regulated specialist solicitors and motorcycle accident specialists, and we are not solicitors ourselves. Whether you can claim, and what any claim may be worth, always depends on your individual circumstances, and nothing here is a guarantee of any outcome or amount. For advice on your own situation, please speak to a regulated specialist.
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