If you were hit by a driver who fled the scene, you may assume you have no chance of getting compensation. This is not true. UK law provides a compensation route for victims of hit-and-run accidents through the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) — even if the driver is never identified.

What Is the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB)?

The MIB is a government-mandated body funded by all UK motor insurers. Its role is to compensate victims of:

  • Untraced drivers — drivers who fled the scene and were never identified
  • Uninsured drivers — drivers with no valid insurance policy

The MIB exists to ensure that innocent victims are not left without compensation simply because the at-fault driver cannot be identified or had no insurance.

IMPORTANT

You Can Still Claim — Even if the Driver Is Never Found

You do not need to identify the driver to make a successful claim. As long as you report the incident to police and can prove you were injured in a road accident, the MIB will assess your claim.

How to Make a Hit and Run Claim

To claim through the MIB, you must:

  1. Report the accident to police within 14 days — this is a strict legal requirement
  2. Gather as much evidence as possible — photos, witness details, partial registration plates
  3. Seek medical attention immediately — even if injuries seem minor
  4. Contact a specialist solicitor — MIB claims have specific procedures and deadlines
  5. Submit your MIB claim within 3 years — the standard limitation period applies

What Evidence Do You Need?

The MIB will require proof that:

  • You were involved in a road accident
  • The accident was caused by another vehicle
  • You suffered injury as a result
  • You made reasonable efforts to identify the driver

Helpful evidence includes:

  • Police report and crime reference number
  • Photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage
  • Witness statements
  • Medical records (A&E, GP, hospital reports)
  • Partial registration plate (even a few digits can help)
  • Dashcam footage (if available)

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

MIB compensation is calculated the same way as standard road accident claims, using the Judicial College Guidelines. You can claim for:

  • General damages — pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
  • Loss of earnings — if you missed work due to your injuries
  • Medical expenses — private treatment, physiotherapy, prescriptions
  • Travel costs — journeys to medical appointments
  • Care costs — if you needed help with daily activities

However, MIB claims have some restrictions depending on which route applies:

  • Untraced driver (driver fled, never identified): You can only claim for personal injury — not vehicle damage or other property. Vehicle repair costs must go through your own comprehensive insurer.
  • Uninsured driver (identified, but no valid insurance): You can claim for both personal injury and vehicle damage. A £300 property damage excess applies and is deducted from any property settlement.

Real Example: Michael S. — Leeds

Michael was sideswiped by a white van on the M62. The van fled the scene. Because the driver was never traced, vehicle repair costs went through Michael's own comprehensive insurer. His MIB claim covered personal injury:

  • £4,200 general damages (whiplash and fractured rib)
  • £3,800 loss of earnings (7 weeks off work)

MIB settlement: £8,000. Read Michael's full story →

How Long Do MIB Claims Take?

MIB claims typically take longer than standard claims — usually 12-24 months. The process is more complex because the MIB must:

  • Verify that the driver was genuinely untraced (they may investigate further)
  • Assess liability without input from the at-fault driver
  • Obtain independent medical evidence

However, with the right legal support, the process can be streamlined.

What If You Have a Partial Registration Plate?

If you managed to note down part of the registration plate, the police may be able to trace the vehicle. If successful, your claim would proceed against the driver's insurer (if they have one) rather than the MIB — which is often faster and simpler.

What If the Driver Was Uninsured (But You Know Who They Are)?

If the driver was identified but had no insurance, you still claim through the MIB — but under a different route ("uninsured driver" rather than "untraced driver"). The process is similar, but you may be able to claim for vehicle damage as well as personal injury.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I didn't report the accident to police within 14 days?

The 14-day reporting requirement is strict. However, if you had a valid reason for not reporting (e.g., you were in hospital), the MIB may still accept your claim. Contact a specialist solicitor for advice.

Can I claim if I was a passenger in a hit-and-run?

Yes, passengers can claim through the MIB if the at-fault driver cannot be traced.

Will I have to go to court?

Most MIB claims settle without court proceedings. However, some cases may require a hearing if the MIB disputes liability or the compensation amount.