First, get their details anyway
- Name, address, phone and licence number
- Registration of their car, and the owner’s details if they don’t own it
- Photos of their licence (if they agree), both cars and the scene
- Witness details and dashcam footage
Even with no insurance, the at-fault driver is still responsible for the damage they caused. Their details are what lets you or your insurer recover the cost.
If you have comprehensive insurance
You can claim on your own policy. Many insurers will waive or refund your excess if you can show the other driver was at fault and provide their details — check your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). Your insurer then pursues the other driver for the cost.
Many comprehensive policies let you choose your repairer, so you can still have your car repaired through us. Insurance repairs.
If you have third party property insurance
Many third party property policies include an “uninsured motorist” extension that covers damage to your car, up to a limit, when the at-fault driver is uninsured and identified. Check your PDS for the limit and conditions.
If you have no insurance either
You can recover the cost from the at-fault driver directly — usually starting with a written letter of demand with your repair quote, and if that fails, a claim in VCAT or the Magistrates’ Court. It’s slower, but it’s your right.
If you weren’t at fault but you’re uninsured, and the other driver was insured, it’s much easier — see no insurance and not at fault.
General information only, current as at 14 October 2026. It isn’t legal advice — for advice about your situation, speak to a lawyer or your insurer.