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Fault vs non-fault: what’s the difference?

By the G4 Claims team · Updated 11 October 2026

A non-fault accident is one where someone else – usually another driver – was responsible for the crash. Common examples are being hit from behind, hit while parked, or hit by a driver pulling out of a junction. Fault is agreed between insurers based on evidence, and sometimes it is split or disputed.

Find out more about non-fault accident claims in Scotland.

Common non-fault situations

  • Rear-end shunts where you were hit from behind
  • Your car was hit while parked
  • Another driver pulled out of a junction or changed lanes into you
  • You were a passenger in any vehicle

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How fault is decided

Insurers look at statements, photos, dashcam footage, witnesses and police reports. That is why collecting evidence at the scene matters – see what to do after a car accident.

Split or disputed liability

Sometimes fault is shared or the other side disputes it. That can change what can be claimed and how. If you are not sure, choose “Not sure” when you start a claim and we will talk it through honestly.

Sources

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different.

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