Can I Claim for Car Accident That Was My Fault? – Claims Explained

If you’ve been involved in a car accident that was your fault, you may still be able to claim compensation. While most people assume only the non-fault party can claim, there are circumstances where you could recover losses. This article explains car accident that was my fault claims, including legal obligations, insurance claim process, and how liability affects compensation. Fentons could be able to help you claim—contact us for expert advice.

Key Facts

• You may be able to claim even if the accident was your fault, depending on insurance cover, split liability, and other factors.
• Admitting liability too soon can affect your claim, so always report the accident properly and follow the legal process.
• Comprehensive cover is essential if you want to claim for damage to your own vehicle in a car accident that was my fault.
• No-claims bonus impact and premium increase are common after an accident my fault, but you could still seek compensation for certain damages.
• Fentons could be able to help you claim under a No Win No Fee agreement—contact us today for expert guidance on your claim.

Understanding Car Accident Compensation Claims When at Fault

 

Many people believe that if they cause an accident, they have no right to claim compensation. However, car accident that was my fault claims can still be possible in certain situations. Your ability to claim depends on factors such as your insurance policy, liability division, and any legal obligations. If you have comprehensive cover, you may be able to recover costs for damage to your vehicle.

However, if you only have third-party insurance, you will not be covered for your own losses. In some cases, split liability might apply, meaning both drivers share fault, allowing for partial compensation. The insurance claim process is complex, and admitting liability too soon could impact your ability to claim. If you were injured, you might be able to claim for medical costs, loss of earnings, and other damages, even if you were at fault. Fentons could be able to help you claim by assessing your case and advising on your best options.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Understanding the most common causes of accidents can help you determine liability and whether you may be able to claim. Many accidents my fault result from human error, mechanical failures, or external conditions. If another factor contributed to the crash, split liability may be an option. Some of the most common causes include:

• Speeding – Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions reduces reaction time and increases accident severity.
• Distracted Driving – Using a phone, eating, or adjusting controls can cause a momentary lapse in attention, leading to a crash.
• Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, increasing accident risks.
• Weather Conditions – Ice, rain, and fog can reduce visibility and road traction, making accidents more likely.
• Failure to Follow Traffic Laws – Running red lights, failing to give way, and ignoring road signs can lead to avoidable collisions.

Determining the cause of your car accident that was my fault is essential when navigating the insurance claim process. If other factors contributed, you may not be fully liable, which could impact compensation. Seeking professional advice can help you understand your legal options.

Injuries Caused by Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in various injuries, ranging from minor to severe, affecting both drivers and passengers. Even in a car accident that was my fault, you may still be able to claim for certain damages, medical expenses, or rehabilitation costs. Some common injuries include:

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries – Sudden jolts can strain muscles and ligaments, causing long-term discomfort.
• Broken Bones and Fractures – Impact forces can break bones, requiring extensive medical treatment.
• Head Injuries and Concussions – Hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag can cause traumatic brain injuries.
• Back and Spinal Injuries – Severe crashes can result in nerve damage, chronic pain, or paralysis.
• Psychological Trauma – Anxiety, PTSD, and emotional distress are common after a serious accident.

Even if you were at fault, your injuries may still warrant compensation under certain circumstances. Understanding the extent of your injuries and how they impact your daily life is crucial when making a claim. Seeking legal advice can help clarify your options.

Can I Claim Compensation if the Accident Was Solely My Fault?

If you caused an accident, you might wonder, can you get compensation if the accident was your fault? The answer depends on your insurance cover and the damages involved. If you have comprehensive cover, you could claim for vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and loss of earnings.

However, with only third-party insurance, your policy will only cover damage to the other driver’s vehicle and injuries. In some cases, insurers apply split liability, meaning you and the other party share responsibility, allowing for partial compensation.

To protect your rights, avoid admitting liability immediately, as it can impact your claim. Reporting an accident to your insurer and following the insurance claim process is essential. You should also consider how your no-claims bonus impact and premium increase could affect your policy. Fentons could be able to help you claim by reviewing your case and advising on possible compensation routes.

Can I Claim Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault?

If you were partially at fault for an accident, you may still be able to make a claim under split liability rules. Many accidents involve shared responsibility, where both parties contribute to the collision. In these cases, the insurance claim process considers each driver’s level of fault, and compensation is adjusted accordingly.

Even if you believe the accident my fault, you should not assume you cannot claim. Factors such as road conditions, the other driver’s actions, and external circumstances all play a role in determining liability. If your claim is successful, the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced based on your share of responsibility. For example, if you were found to be 50% at fault, you would receive only 50% of the total compensation amount.

To improve your chances of a successful claim, gather evidence such as dashcam footage, witness statements, and accident reports. Fentons could be able to help you with road traffic accident claims by assessing your situation and advising on how to proceed.

What Is a Split Liability Car Accident Compensation Claim?

A split liability claim applies when both parties share responsibility for an accident. Rather than one driver being entirely to blame, insurers allocate fault between them, typically as a percentage. This affects how much compensation each person can recover. Split liability can arise in situations such as:

• Both drivers failing to give way at a junction or roundabout
• One driver speeding while the other misjudges a turn
• Rear-end collisions where the front driver brakes suddenly and unnecessarily
• Lane-changing accidents where both drivers could have avoided the collision
• Pedestrian accidents where the driver was speeding, but the pedestrian crossed unsafely

When a split liability claim is determined, insurers negotiate the percentage of responsibility for each driver. If you are 30% at fault, you can still recover 70% of your claim value. Seeking professional advice ensures that fault is fairly allocated and that you do not accept more blame than necessary. Fentons could be able to help you claim by guiding you through the process.

How Much Compensation Will I Get for a Car Accident Claim?

The amount of compensation you could receive for a car accident that was my fault or partially your fault depends on several factors. The key areas considered when calculating compensation include:

• Vehicle Repairs and Property Damage – If you have comprehensive cover, your insurer may pay for repairs or a replacement vehicle.
• Medical Expenses – Compensation can cover hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment costs.
• Loss of Earnings – If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to claim for lost income and future earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering – Claims can include compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Other Financial Losses – This may include travel expenses for medical appointments and home adaptations for serious injuries.

Even if you were partially at fault, you could still be entitled to claim for these damages, although the final amount will be reduced based on your level of liability. Fentons could be able to help you claim and ensure you receive the best possible outcome. The next section contains examples of car accident compensation.

Car Accident Compensation Examples

Death (followed by unconsciousness) (£12,830 to £13,020) – Severe burns and lung damage cause extreme pain before unconsciousness within three hours, leading to death after two weeks.

Tetraplegia (Quadriplegia) (£396,140 to £493,000) – Compensation depends on pain levels, sensory loss, and life expectancy. Higher awards apply if there is pain, brain damage, or loss of communication. Factors like movement limits, respiratory issues, and feeding tubes also affect the amount.

Head Injury (Less Severe) (£18,700 to £52,550) – Recovery allows a return to work and social life, but issues like poor concentration, memory loss, or mood changes may persist. Higher awards apply if there is epilepsy risk or past seizures.

Severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (£73,050 to £122,850) – PTSD causes permanent effects, preventing work and severely impacting daily life.

Minor Back Injury (Category i) (£9,630 to £15,260) – Full recovery or minor symptoms lasting up to five years, including pain flare-ups without surgery.

Can I Claim for Whiplash for a Car Accident That Was Partially My Fault?

Yes, you may be able to claim for whiplash even if you were partially responsible for the accident. Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, caused by the sudden jolt of impact. Symptoms can include neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and reduced mobility, which may require medical treatment and time off work. In a split liability case, your compensation will be adjusted based on your percentage of fault. If you were 40% at fault, you would still receive 60% of the compensation amount.

It is important to seek medical attention immediately and keep records of your diagnosis and treatment. Whiplash claims have become more regulated under UK law, particularly with The Whiplash Injury Regulations 2021, which introduced set compensation tariffs and stricter requirements for claims. Ensuring you follow the correct legal steps is crucial. Fentons could be able to help you with whiplash compensation claims by handling your case and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Standard Whiplash Compensation Amounts

Table A Amount	Table B Amount	Injury Duration
£240	£260	Up to 3 months
£495	£520	Between 3 and 6 months
£840	£895	Between 6 and 9 months
£1,320	£1,390	Between 9 and 12 months
£2,040	£2,725	Between 12 and 15 months
£3,005	£3,700	Between 15 and 18 months
£4,215	£4,345	Between 18 and 24 months

How Do I Make a Split Liability Car Accident Compensation Claim?

Making a split liability car accident compensation claim involves gathering evidence, understanding liability percentages, and negotiating with insurers. If both drivers share blame, compensation is adjusted based on each person’s fault. The insurance claim process requires clear documentation to support your case. Steps to make a split liability claim include:

• Report the accident to your insurer and provide all necessary details.
• Gather evidence, such as dashcam footage, accident scene photos, and witness statements.
• Do not admit liability immediately, as fault should be determined based on available evidence.
• Obtain a police report, if applicable, to strengthen your claim.
• Seek medical attention and keep records if you suffered injuries.

Once fault is assessed, insurers will negotiate a settlement based on the percentage of liability. If you are 30% responsible, you can claim for 70% of your losses. Fentons could be able to help you claim by guiding you through the process and ensuring a fair outcome.

Are There Time Limits for Car Accident Claims?

Yes, there are strict time limits for making a car accident that was my fault claim. Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to make a personal injury claim. However, exceptions apply in certain cases:

• Claims involving children – The three-year limit begins when they turn 18, meaning they have until age 21 to claim.
• Mental incapacity – If the injured party lacks mental capacity, there may be no time limit.
• Fatal accidents – Families of a deceased victim have three years from the date of death to claim.
• Accidents abroad – Different countries have different time limits, so claims must be made quickly.

It is essential to start your claim as soon as possible to allow time for gathering evidence and building your case. Fentons could be able to help you claim within the required timeframe to ensure you do not miss your opportunity.

What Do I Need to Do to Prove Liability in a Car Accident Claim?

Proving liability is crucial when making a car accident that was my fault claim or disputing a split liability case. The stronger your evidence, the better your chances of reducing your level of fault or securing compensation. Key steps to prove liability include:

• Gather photographic evidence of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
• Obtain witness statements from passengers, pedestrians, or other road users.
• Request a police report if emergency services attended the scene.
• Provide dashcam footage if available, as this can be crucial in determining fault.
• Keep medical records if you suffered injuries, as these prove the accident’s impact.

Strong evidence can reduce your level of fault in a split liability claim, increasing your potential compensation. Fentons could be able to help you claim by reviewing your evidence and ensuring you present the strongest possible case.

No Win No Fee Car Accident Claims Explained

A No Win No Fee agreement allows you to pursue a claim without upfront legal costs. This means you only pay if your claim is successful, making it a risk-free way to seek compensation. No Win No Fee car accident claims work by:

• Providing free initial advice to assess your eligibility.
• Ensuring you do not pay legal fees upfront, removing financial risk.
• Covering all case costs, so you only pay a percentage of your compensation if successful.
• Offering protection from legal fees if your claim is unsuccessful.
• Allowing access to justice, even if you cannot afford to pay upfront.

A No Win No Fee arrangement ensures that legal support is available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Fentons could be able to help you claim under a No Win No Fee agreement, making it easier for you to seek the compensation you deserve.

Fentons Can Help You to Make a Claim for a Car Accident That Was Partially Your Fault

If you were partially at fault for an accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. Fentons can help you claim by ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible. With over 30 years of experience, our claims professionals provide expert guidance to help you navigate the insurance claim process and understand your legal obligations.

We offer free legal advice from friendly experts, ensuring you make the best decision for your situation. Whether you need assistance gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, or understanding split liability, our team is here to support you every step of the way. You should not assume you are ineligible to claim without seeking professional advice.

Fentons could be able to help you claim, even if the accident was partially your fault. To find out if you can claim compensation, call 0333 000 0723 or contact us today.

Partial Fault Car Accident FAQ

Can I Protect My No-Claims Bonus After an At-Fault Accident?

Yes, but only if you have no-claims bonus protection added to your policy before the accident. Without it, an at-fault accident will reduce or remove your no-claims discount when you renew your insurance.

What Is the Difference Between Fault and Non-Fault Claims?

A fault claim means you or your insurer are responsible for covering damages. A non-fault claim means another party was liable, and their insurer pays. Even if not at fault, claiming through your own insurer may impact your premium.

How Long Does an At-Fault Accident Stay on My Insurance Record?

An at-fault accident usually stays on your insurance record for five years. During this period, it may increase your premiums, depending on your insurer’s risk assessment policies.

Partial Fault Car Accident Claim Resources

NHS – Whiplash: A guide to whiplash, an injury caused by sudden jerking of the neck, often in car accidents, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options like physiotherapy or pain relief.

UK Legislation – Public Transport Safety Act 2018: This act regulates safety standards for public transport, ensuring safety measures for passengers and workers across transport networks.

Motor Insurers’ Bureau – Making a Claim: The Motor Insurers’ Bureau provides guidance on how to make a claim for injuries caused by uninsured or hit-and-run drivers in the UK.