What claims process do private hire insurance companies follow?

Immediate steps after a taxi accident

Ensure personal and passenger safety

 

The first priority after any taxi accident is to ensure the safety and well-being of both the driver and passengers. Taxi drivers should check for injuries and assist passengers in moving to a safe location if it is possible and safe to do so. Remaining calm and composed helps in managing the situation effectively and preventing further harm.

 

Assess the accident scene

 

Once safety is ensured, the driver should carefully assess the accident scene. This involves looking out for potential hazards such as leaking fuel, fire risks, or ongoing traffic dangers. It is important to avoid moving vehicles or debris unless necessary for safety reasons. Gathering initial observations about the scene will be critical for insurance claims later.

 

Contact emergency services

 

If there are any injuries or significant vehicle damage, the driver must immediately contact emergency services by dialing 999. Providing clear and accurate information about the location, nature of the accident, and condition of those involved is important. Following the instructions of emergency operators ensures that the appropriate response arrives promptly.

 

Dealing with passengers post-accident

Ensuring passenger safety and comfort

 

After an accident, the immediate priority for taxi drivers is to ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers. This involves checking each passenger for any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem, and providing first aid if necessary and if the driver is trained to do so.

 

If the vehicle is in a dangerous location, such as the middle of a busy road, the driver should assist passengers in moving to a safer area, away from traffic and other hazards. It is important to remain calm and reassuring to help reduce passengers' anxiety and panic. Offering blankets or water, if available, can provide additional comfort while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

 

Legal obligations towards passengers

 

Taxi drivers have a legal duty of care towards their passengers, which means they are responsible for ensuring their safety throughout the journey and especially after an accident. This duty extends to providing reasonable assistance following an incident, such as facilitating access to medical care or contacting emergency services on behalf of injured passengers.

 

In the event that the driver is found to be at fault due to negligence or failure to adhere to road safety laws, passengers may have the right to claim compensation for injuries or damages sustained. Taxi drivers should cooperate fully with any investigations or legal proceedings that arise from the accident and provide accurate and truthful information. Keeping detailed records of the accident and passenger details can support both the driver's and passengers' interests during insurance claims or legal processes.

 

What are the rights of taxi drivers in road accidents?

 

Taxi drivers have specific rights and protections in the event of road traffic accidents. It is a legal requirement for all taxi drivers to hold valid taxi insurance cover that complies with local authorities and licensing conditions.

 

There are important distinctions between private hire vehicles and public hire taxis. A private hire vehicle is licensed to take bookings for pre-arranged trips or contracts and requires private hire insurance. In contrast, public hire taxis can pick up passengers without pre-booking, such as from a taxi rank or by being hailed on the street, and require public hire taxi insurance.

 

Taxi insurance can cover both private hire and public hire vehicles, depending on the driver's licensing. Specialist taxi insurance is generally more expensive than regular car insurance due to the higher risk associated with frequent driving and carrying passengers.

 

Drivers have the right to claim compensation if they are involved in a non fault accident, including for loss of earnings and vehicle repair costs. Taxi drivers are also entitled to receive support from their taxi insurance provider, which may include access to a dedicated team available 24/7 for claims assistance and provision of a replacement vehicle to keep them on the road.

 

What are the 4 phases of the claim process?

 

The private hire insurance claims process typically follows four key phases:

 

1. Notification and reporting: The driver must report the accident to their insurance company or broker as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. This includes providing all necessary details and gathering evidence such as photos, witness statements, and police reports.

2. Investigation and assessment: The insurance company reviews the evidence to determine liability and the extent of vehicle damage or injuries. This phase may include verifying the driver's licensing and insurance policy details.

3. Approval and settlement: Once the claim is validated, the insurer will approve repairs at an authorised garage or offer a settlement if the vehicle is deemed a total loss. Compensation for injuries or other losses may also be arranged.

4. Closure and follow-up: After settlement, the claim is closed, but drivers may need to follow up on repairs or compensation payments. Maintaining communication with the insurer ensures smooth resolution.

 

How do insurance companies approve claims?

 

Insurance companies approve claims based on a careful evaluation of the evidence gathered from the accident. This includes photos and videos of the accident scene and vehicle damage, witness statements, police reports, and any dash cam footage available. It is also necessary to provide accurate insurance details when submitting a claim, as these are essential for processing the claim, legal procedures, and documenting damages.

 

The insurer verifies that the claim aligns with the terms of the taxi insurance policy and that the driver was operating within the legal requirements. As part of their checks, insurers also verify the driver’s age and valid full license. If the claim meets all criteria and liability is established, the insurer authorises repairs or issues a settlement offer.

 

How do insurers determine who was at fault?

 

In 2025, many insurers establish fault in approximately 75% of private hire insurance claims using evidence such as dash-cam footage and witness statements.

 

Determining fault is an important part of the claims process. Insurers consider all available evidence, including the accounts of all parties involved, witness testimonies, and official police reports. Taxi drivers should not admit liability at the scene, as this will be determined by insurers.

 

Dash cam footage can be particularly valuable in clarifying events. The insurer also reviews the circumstances of the accident, traffic laws, and any prior claims history. Fault is assigned based on this comprehensive evaluation, which impacts claim compensation and liability.

 

How do insurance companies investigate a claim?

 

Insurance companies conduct thorough investigations to verify the validity of claims. This process involves:

 

• Gathering evidence from the accident scene, including photographs and videos.

• Collecting statements and contact details from all parties involved and witnesses.

• Reviewing police reports and any relevant legal proceedings.

• Checking the taxi insurance policy details to confirm coverage and compliance.

• Assessing vehicle damage through expert appraisals.

• Verifying the driver’s licensing and adherence to local authority requirements.

 

This rigorous investigation ensures that claims are handled fairly and that fraudulent or exaggerated claims are identified. It also helps in determining the correct settlement amount and in processing the claim efficiently.

 

What are the best practices for taxi drivers to avoid accidents?

 

Taxi drivers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents by adopting several best practices that focus on safety, awareness, and vehicle maintenance.

 

Safe driving habits

 

Maintaining safe driving habits is essential. This includes obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions such as mobile phones, and practising defensive driving techniques. Defensive driving means being alert to the actions of other road users and anticipating potential hazards before they arise.

 

Regular vehicle maintenance

 

Keeping the taxi in good mechanical condition is crucial. Regular checks should be conducted on brakes, tyres, lights, and steering to ensure they are functioning correctly. Monitoring tyre pressure and tread depth helps maintain optimal grip on the road, especially in adverse weather conditions.

 

Use of safety equipment

 

Equipping the vehicle with safety devices such as dash cams, GPS tracking, and CCTV can enhance security and provide valuable evidence in the event of an accident. These tools also encourage responsible driving behaviour.

 

Awareness of local area

 

Being well versed in the local area, including high-risk zones and traffic patterns, helps taxi drivers navigate safely and avoid accident-prone locations. Staying updated on roadworks, diversions, and changes in traffic regulations is also important.

 

Managing fatigue and stress

 

Long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue, which impairs concentration and reaction times. Taxi drivers should take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and manage stress effectively to maintain alertness.

 

Training and continuous learning

 

Participating in driving courses and first aid training equips taxi drivers with the skills to prevent accidents and respond appropriately if incidents occur. Continuous learning about road safety and changes in legislation is beneficial.

 

By following these best practices, taxi drivers not only protect themselves and their passengers but also contribute to safer roads for all users.