There is no fixed answer, and anyone who gives you an exact timescale before they have seen the details is guessing. A straightforward claim, where the other insurer accepts responsibility quickly, can move faster than one where fault is disputed or the vehicle is written off. What we can do is explain the likely steps once we know your situation, and keep you updated the whole way through.
Find out more about how a non-fault claim works.
Here is what actually affects the timing, so you know what to expect.
The rough shape of a non fault claim timeline
Most claims go through the same stages, even if the time each one takes varies a lot:
- You tell us what happened. Online, by phone or by WhatsApp.
- We check the details and explain your options.
- The other insurer is contacted and asked to accept responsibility.
- Your vehicle is inspected and repair costs are agreed, or it is valued if it is a total loss.
- Repairs are carried out, or the write-off is settled.
- The claim is wrapped up once everything has been dealt with.
Where eligible, a comparable replacement vehicle may be arranged while your own is off the road, so the length of the claim does not have to mean the length of time you are without a car.
See our how it works page for more on each stage.
Had an accident that wasn’t your fault?
Start your claimThings that can speed a claim up
- Clear fault. If the other driver's insurer accepts responsibility early, things move more smoothly.
- Good evidence. Photos, witness details and dashcam footage help settle questions quickly.
- Full details from the start. The other driver's name, registration and insurer save a lot of chasing.
- Quick replies. If we ask you for something, getting it back to us promptly keeps things moving.
Things that can slow a claim down
- Disputed fault. If the other driver tells a different story, the insurers look at the evidence, and that takes time.
- Split liability. If fault might be shared, there is more to agree.
- Missing details. If the other driver drove off or gave wrong information, tracing them can add time.
- Uninsured or untraced drivers. These claims work differently. See our guide on uninsured or untraced drivers in Scotland.
- A write-off. Agreeing a pre-accident value can take a bit of back and forth, especially if the first valuation seems low.
How long do repairs take?
It depends on the damage, parts availability, the bodyshop's workload and how quickly repairs are authorised. Minor repairs can be quick, but parts shortages or disputes can add time. We can't give a fixed timescale before the vehicle has been assessed. We'll keep you updated by phone or WhatsApp and let you know straight away if anything changes.
If you'd like to use a garage you trust, tell us at the start. See choosing your own body shop.
What if my car is written off?
If repairs aren't economical, your vehicle may be treated as a total loss, and we can help recover its pre-accident value from the at-fault insurer. That value is usually based on what a similar vehicle would have cost just before the accident. If you think a valuation is too low, tell us and share evidence such as adverts for similar vehicles. Doing that early can save time.
How long do car insurance claims take in the UK generally?
You will see all sorts of figures online, but every claim is different, and there is no single official timescale we'd want to quote. The honest answer is that it depends on the factors above.
Don't leave it too long to start
The sooner you get in touch, the sooner we can contact the other insurer and get evidence such as footage before it is lost. Scotland also has its own legal system, and the time limits for bringing a claim here can differ from those in England and Wales. Please don't wait to find out.
How we keep you updated
You'll deal with a real person at our Claims HQ in Wishaw. We keep you updated by phone, email or WhatsApp, whichever suits you. Messages sent outside our opening hours are picked up the next working day.
Get your claim moving
The quickest way to start is to start your claim online. You can also message us on WhatsApp any time on 07788 266261, or call 01698 767 172 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 2pm). Claims email: firstresponse@g4claims.net. New to this? Read making a no-fault claim in Scotland, step by step.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a non-fault claim take?
It varies. A claim where the other insurer accepts responsibility quickly can move faster than one where fault is disputed or the vehicle is written off. We'll explain the likely steps once we know the details.
Can you give me a date for my car being back?
Not before the vehicle has been assessed. Repair time depends on the damage, parts and the bodyshop's workload. We'll tell you as soon as we know more.
Will I be without a car the whole time?
Not necessarily. Where eligible, we can help check whether a comparable replacement vehicle can be arranged while yours is off the road. See courtesy car vs like-for-like hire.
My claim with someone else is dragging on. Can you look at it?
Yes. We can check an existing claim and explain what your options might be.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different.