If you have been negligently injured by a vehicle which failed to stop, left the scene before the Gardaí arrived, or was not insured, it will be necessary to make a claim for damages through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) compensation scheme. The MIBI compensates victims of road traffic accidents caused by uninsured or unidentified drivers and also provides a mechanism for seeking compensation for injury, loss and damage caused by foreign registered vehicles.
The MIBI Scheme
The first step in the process is to notify the MIBI of the accident and the intention to pursue a claim for damages. A MIBI claim notification form will need to be submitted detailing all available information in respect of the accident such as the date, time, and location, your own personal details, vehicle registration numbers, details of vehicle damage, injuries sustained and attendances with medical professionals, and details of attending Gardaí.
The MIBI will then investigate the matter, including if necessary interviewing the parties involved, and ascertain the insurance position of the alleged offending driver and vehicle. There are a number of pre-conditions to making a claim and certain exclusions apply. If the matter comes within the remit of the MIBI it will nominate an Irish insurance provider to deal with the claim. The MIBI becomes a party to the proceedings and is named as a defendant along with the offending driver. If successful, the claimant receives a payment in compensation from the MIBI on conclusion of the matter.
Legal Advice
MIBI claims can be complicated and there are certain onerous obligations on claimants relying on the MIBI scheme. As a consequence, it is always advisable to speak to a solicitor experienced in MIBI claims.
We have a special interest in the law relating to uninsured and untraced drivers and have considerable experience in dealing with the MIBI on behalf of clients. If you have been injured in a hit and run accident we can guide you through the claims process ensuring that you are in safe hands and receiving the best available advice.
If you wish to discuss a potential claim or would like advice on any matter, please Contact Us for a consultation.
*in contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award of damages.
