Accidents happen, even to the safest drivers. But when you find yourself in a crash that wasn’t your fault, one question immediately comes to mind: “Do I still have to pay my excess?”

For many UK motorists, the answer isn’t always straightforward. In most cases, you may not have to, but sometimes your insurer will ask you to pay upfront and refund it later—depending on how quickly liability is established and the other driver’s insurer responds.

Let’s break it down simply and show you how Nova Motor Assist can make this process smoother, ensuring you’re never left out of pocket or stranded.

What Is Car Insurance Excess in the UK?

Excess is the portion of a claim that you, as the policyholder, agree to cover before your insurer pays the rest. Think of it as your share of the bill.

In the UK, it’s typically split into two parts:

• Compulsory excess – set by your insurer based on factors like your age, car model, and driving history.
  
• Voluntary excess – an amount you choose to lower your premium.
  

For example, if your total excess is £500 and repairs cost £2,000, you’ll pay £500, and your insurer covers the remainder.

Many drivers don’t realise the importance of choosing the right excess when buying insurance, but doing so can make a big difference in your out-of-pocket costs.

Do You Pay Excess If the Accident Wasn’t Your Fault?

Generally, if you’re not at fault and the other driver admits liability, your insurer can claim directly from the other party’s insurer, meaning you may not need to pay your excess.

However, there are scenarios where you might still have to pay upfront:

• Liability disputes – if the other driver denies responsibility.
  
• Uninsured or untraceable drivers – for example, in hit-and-run cases.
  
• Urgent repairs – sometimes insurers require the excess to authorise repairs quickly.
  

At Nova Motor Assist, we specialise in accident management services, handling non-fault claims on your behalf. We take care of the paperwork, communicate with insurers, and help you recover your excess faster.

Been in a non-fault accident? Contact Nova Motor Assist today for stress-free assistance.

How to Recover Your Excess

If you do pay excess initially, it’s often recoverable once your insurer confirms the other party’s liability. Improve your chances by:

1. Gathering solid evidence – photos, dashcam footage, and witness statements.
   
2. Reporting promptly – delays can slow down recovery.
   
3. Staying proactive – follow up regularly with your insurer.
   

Our UK car insurance claim support team manages this process, ensuring your excess is refunded as quickly as possible.

Will a Non-Fault Claim Affect Your Premium?

Frustratingly, some UK insurers may still raise your premium at renewal, even for a non-fault claim. This is because drivers who have made one claim are statistically more likely to make another.

To protect yourself:

• Ask about a no-claims bonus (NCB) protection add-on.
  
• Provide strong evidence of non-fault to your insurer.
  
• Compare renewal quotes and switch providers if necessary.
  

Our insurance claim assistance team can guide you through these decisions, helping you keep your costs low.

How to Avoid Paying Excess Altogether

You can’t eliminate every risk, but here are ways to reduce your chances of paying excess:

• Choose a policy that waives excess for non-fault claims.
  
• Add excess protection cover – reimburses your excess regardless of fault.
  
• Use a dashcam – footage can speed up liability decisions.
  
• Drive defensively – keeping safe distances and staying alert reduces accidents.
  

If the worst happens, Nova Motor Assist’s 24/7 vehicle recovery ensures you’re never left stranded or footing unnecessary bills.

What to Do Immediately After a Non-Fault Accident

1. Ensure safety first – check for injuries and move to a safe location.
   
2. Collect evidence – get the other driver’s details, take photos, and gather witness information.
   
3. Notify your insurer quickly – quick reporting speeds up your claim.
   
4. Call Nova Motor Assist – our emergency vehicle recovery UK team provides fast roadside assistance, courtesy cars, and handles the entire claims process for you.
   

With our professional accident help in the UK, you’re never alone in navigating the aftermath of an accident.

Key Takeaways

• You may not always have to pay excess in non-fault accidents, but sometimes insurers require it upfront.
  
• Evidence and quick action help ensure you recover it.
  
• Nova Motor Assist provides stress-free claim handling, from arranging repairs and courtesy cars to chasing insurers.
  

Conclusion

Had a non-fault accident? Don’t let excess payments stress you out.

• Get expert help with accident management.
  
• Arrange breakdown & recovery assistance anywhere in the UK.
  
• Contact Nova Motor Assist today and get back on the road quickly.
  

With Nova Motor Assist, you get expert support every step of the way.