Do I have to go through my own insurance?

No. If you’re not at fault, we can manage everything without involving your insurer.

Will I have to pay anything?

If the accident wasn’t your fault, you pay nothing. We recover all costs from the at-fault party’s insurer.

Can I get a replacement taxi or PCO vehicle?

Yes! We specialise in PCO-licensed and hackney cab replacements – delivered quickly so you don’t lose income.

What if my vehicle is written off?

We’ll recover its full pre-accident value and ensure you have a replacement car in the meantime.

How quickly will I get a courtesy car?

Often the same day, depending on your location and vehicle type.

Do you cover motorcycles and vans?

Yes. Our fleet includes motorbikes, vans, and even commercial vehicles.

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in the UK? - Nova Motor Assist

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in the UK?

Introduction

After a car accident, one of the first questions drivers ask is:
“How long do I have to report it?”

In the UK, strict time limits apply for reporting road accidents — both to the police and to your insurance provider. Failing to report on time can cause serious problems, including invalid claims or even penalties.

This guide explains exactly when and how to report a car accident in the UK, plus how Nova Motor Assist can help you handle it quickly and correctly.

“You should report a car accident to the police within 24 hours if someone is injured or details weren’t exchanged. You must also tell your insurer as soon as possible, ideally the same day. Nova Motor Assist helps you report your FNOL (First Notification of Loss) 24/7 for fast claim support.“

1. Reporting a Car Accident to the Police

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, you must:

Stop immediately at the scene of an accident.
Exchange details with any other parties involved.
If you cannot exchange details (for example, the other driver left the scene), you must report the accident to the police within 24 hours.

Failing to report within 24 hours can result in:

A fine or penalty points on your licence.
Potential prosecution for failing to stop/report.

👉 Even minor collisions should be logged if there’s any uncertainty.

2. Reporting to Your Insurance Company

Most UK insurance policies require you to notify your insurer “as soon as reasonably possible” — usually within 24 hours to 48 hours.

Even if you don’t plan to make a claim, you should still report the incident. Failing to do so can:

Breach your policy terms.
Invalidate future claims.
Lead to increased premiums.

Tip: Always report through Nova Motor Assist — we manage the FNOL (First Notification of Loss) and ensure all the right details reach your insurer on time.

3. What Is FNOL and Why It Matters

FNOL (First Notification of Loss) is the official start of your insurance claim.
It includes details like:

Date, time, and location of the accident.
Details of all vehicles involved.
Photos, videos, or witness statements.

Quick FNOL reporting helps you:

Get a replacement car faster.
Start repairs or recovery immediately.
Prevent disputes with insurers.

Nova Motor Assist offers 24/7 FNOL reporting, so you never miss a deadline.

4. Time Limits for Making an Insurance Claim

While you must report your accident right away, you typically have:

Up to 3 years to make a personal injury claim.
6 years for property damage claims.

Still, it’s best to start early — the sooner the claim begins, the faster you’ll receive your payout.

5. What Happens If You Don’t Report in Time?

The insurer may reject your claim or reduce compensation.
Your policy could become void for non-disclosure.
You may face legal penalties for not reporting to the police.

If you’ve missed the deadline, contact Nova Motor Assist immediately — our claims team can help log a late FNOL and liaise with insurers on your behalf.

6. How Nova Motor Assist Helps You Report Accidents Quickly

Immediate 24/7 FNOL reporting – we log your accident anytime.
Direct insurer communication – so you don’t miss reporting windows.
Vehicle recovery & storage – arranged within hours.
Like-for-like replacement vehicle – delivered fast, at no cost if you’re not at fault.
Full claim management – from notification to settlement.

With Nova Motor Assist, your accident report and claim start instantly — keeping you compliant, protected, and mobile.

FAQs: How Long to Report Car Accident UK

1. How long do I have to report an accident to the police?

You must report it within 24 hours if someone is injured or details weren’t exchanged.

2. How long to report to my insurer?

Most insurers require notification within 24–48 hours.

3. What if I’m unsure whether to report it?

It’s always safer to report. Nova Motor Assist can guide you through the process.

4. Can I report an accident through Nova Motor Assist instead of my insurer?

Yes. We manage the full FNOL process and contact your insurer directly.

5. What happens if I don’t report in time?

You could lose coverage, face fines, or have your claim rejected.

Conclusion

In the UK, reporting a car accident quickly is essential — within 24 hours for police and as soon as possible for insurers.

With Nova Motor Assist, you can report accidents 24/7, avoid penalties, and start your recovery process immediately. From FNOL to replacement vehicles and repairs, we handle every step for you.

👉 Don’t delay — one call to Nova Motor Assist keeps you compliant, covered, and back on the road faster.