10 car crash expenses drivers can claim

Putting in an insurance claim is crunch time for drivers who have had a crash.

If you don’t know what to claim, you could end up with a much-reduced pay out, while claiming too much could lead to your car insurance firm combing through the receipts to look for items they can cut.

If you have had a crash and need some idea of what you can claim for, here’s guide to the top 10 expenses an insurer expects to see:

• Accident damage repairs or vehicle replacement if your car is written off  – opt for market value rather than book value cover on your policy for the highest pay out

• Hiring a similar car to your own while its in for repairs – don’t go upmarket as the in surer will reclaim the difference between the most expensive and cheaper options

• If you prefer not to have a replacement car, you can still claim ‘loss of use’. You submit a claim for the number of days you are without your car and the insurer generally pays out at a flat daily rate

• Claim any storage costs a garage or tow firm charges for keeping and moving your car from the scene and while you are waiting for repairs to start

• Tot up the mileage you cover after the accident – like attending hospital or your doctor for treatment for any injuries.Ask for receipts for any expenses relating to the crash – like prescription charges

• Get your boss or payroll department to confirm in writing how much pay you have lost if you cannot work. Claim as loss of earnings.

• Charge an hourly rate for friends or family who help you out after the accident – log the times and exactly what they do.

• If you crash on the way to the airport or miss your holiday because you are suffering an injury, claim the cost – providing your travel insurance has not already paid out. If it has, you can’t claim twice for the same loss.

• Claim the cost of lost or damaged possessions that were in the car at the time of the crash.

Don’t forget, this is not a definitive list – you may have other costs you can reclaim. Check your insurance policy to see what is covered, and remember to speak to a lawyer if legal fees are included.