When you think about car insurance claims, you might picture dramatic accidents. However, the reality is often much more mundane. Most claims are for everyday incidents that happen when we least expect them. Understanding what these common claims are can help you drive more carefully and choose the right insurance cover. Motor insurers paid out a record £11.7 billion in 2024, showing just how frequent and costly these events can be.
The most frequent car insurance claims are not always the most severe. Knowing this can help you prepare and potentially avoid some of these common issues. Here’s what you actually need to know.
Understanding Your Car Insurance Claims
When you make a car insurance claim, it’s essentially asking your insurer to cover the cost of damage or loss according to your policy. The most common reason for this is accidental damage where no one is injured. This type of claim makes up 49% of all claims. These can include things like scraping your car against a wall while parking or a minor collision with another vehicle.
If I were in a situation where I had a minor scrape, my first move would be to assess the damage and check if it’s worth claiming. Sometimes, the excess on my policy might be more than the repair cost, so it’s good to know this beforehand.
Windscreen damage is another very common issue, accounting for 16% of claims. This can be caused by anything from a stone flicked up by another vehicle to vandalism. Even a small chip can spread and obscure your vision, making it a safety hazard.
Accidental damage where injuries are involved is less frequent but more serious, making up 12% of claims. The median payout for these incidents is significantly higher, at £3,400, reflecting the costs associated with medical treatment and vehicle repairs.
Theft or burglary accounts for 11% of claims. This could involve the car being stolen or items being taken from inside it. The median payout for theft claims is £2,000.
It’s interesting to note that only 1% of car insurance customers had their claim rejected in a survey. This suggests that insurers generally process claims fairly, but it’s always wise to understand your policy terms.
Why Common Claims Happen
Many of the most common car insurance claims are linked to everyday driving situations and the environment in which we drive. For instance, parking incidents account for 20% of all car insurance claims in the UK. This is often because car parks involve navigating tight spaces, low speeds, and other drivers who may not be paying full attention.
Urban roads present their own challenges. They are reported to be around ten times more hazardous than motorways, with a casualty rate of 719 per billion miles. This higher risk is due to more complex junctions, pedestrians, cyclists, and increased traffic density.
Roundabouts are a particular point of concern, with 20% of all near-miss scenarios reported to AA Accident Assist in 2024 occurring at these junctions. Misjudging speed or failing to see other vehicles can lead to collisions.
A significant factor contributing to accidents is driver behaviour. Failing to look properly is a root cause in over 30% of all crashes in the UK. This highlights the importance of constant vigilance and checking your surroundings thoroughly before moving off or changing direction.
The cost of repairs is also a major factor in why claims are made and why they can be expensive. Average car repair costs have risen by 24.7% between 2019 and 2025. This increase is driven by several factors, including the rising price of car parts, which have seen a 35% price increase between 2020 and 2024. Furthermore, the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, particularly electric cars which can cost 25% more to repair, adds to the overall expense.
The skills shortage in the automotive industry also plays a role. There were 23,000 vacancies across the industry in 2024, and only 22% of UK technicians are fully EV-qualified, with just 2% holding formal ADAS calibration certification. This can lead to longer repair times, with electric vehicles taking 14% longer to repair.
If I were facing a repair bill for a modern car, especially an electric one, I’d want to ensure my policy adequately covered these rising costs. It might mean reviewing my excess and the overall level of cover.
Common Policy Gaps and Misunderstandings
While accidental damage and windscreen issues are frequent, there are other areas where drivers often find themselves underinsured. One in six car insurance policies, for example, did not include personal possessions cover. This means items like your phone, laptop, or shopping that are stolen from your car might not be covered.
Similarly, fewer than one in ten people surveyed actually claimed on personal possessions cover, even if they had it. This could be due to the excess amount being too high or the claim value being too low. When cover is in place, the median payout for personal possessions was £1,000.
Specific items are also frequently excluded. One in eight car insurance policies do not cover mobile phones at all. This is a significant gap, as phones are often left in cars or stolen from them. Furthermore, a quarter of policies will not cover dash cams or sat navs if they are not integrated into the car’s system. This means portable devices might not be protected.
If I discovered my policy didn’t cover my mobile phone, which I use for navigation, I’d look into adding specific gadget cover or see if a higher-tier car insurance policy included it.
→ Scroll right to see all columns
| Claim Type | Percentage of Claims | Median Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Accidental Damage (no injury) | 49% | £2,000 |
| Windscreen Damage | 16% | £300 |
| Accidental Damage (with injury) | 12% | £3,400 |
| Theft or Burglary | 11% | £2,000 |
Reducing Your Risk of Making a Claim
Preventing claims is always better than making one. Simple changes in your driving habits and how you use your car can significantly reduce your risk.
Drive More Cautiously in Urban Areas
Given that urban roads are more hazardous and car parks see a high number of accidents, extra caution is needed. Slow down, be patient, and always check your mirrors and blind spots before moving. When parking, take your time to manoeuvre correctly. If you are in a situation where you might have a close call, like on a roundabout, it’s better to brake and wait than to risk a collision.
Invest in Safety and Security Technology
Dash cams can be invaluable. They provide a recording of events, which can be crucial evidence if you need to make a claim, especially in cases of accidental damage or if you are involved in an incident where fault is disputed. A device like the Garmin Dash Cam Mini is compact and can record incidents automatically. For added security against theft, consider a steering wheel lock, such as the Stoplock Steering Wheel Lock. Vehicle trackers, like the GPSBob Wired GPS Tracker, can also help recover a stolen vehicle.
If I were concerned about theft or vandalism, I’d definitely look into a steering wheel lock or a tracker. It’s a proactive step that could save a lot of hassle and expense.
Review Your Policy Coverage
It’s essential to understand what your policy covers and what it doesn’t. If you regularly carry valuable items, such as a laptop or expensive tools, ensure your personal possessions cover is adequate. If you use a dash cam, check that it’s covered. Some policies may require specific add-ons for these items. Similarly, if you have a newer car, ensure the repair cost coverage reflects current market values, especially with the rising costs of parts and labour.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Regular maintenance is key to preventing breakdowns and ensuring your car is safe to drive. This includes checking tyre pressure, brakes, and lights. A well-maintained car is less likely to be involved in an accident due to mechanical failure. Ensure your windscreen is free from chips and cracks, as these can quickly worsen and require replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common car insurance claim? ▾
How much does a windscreen claim cost? ▾
Are personal possessions covered by car insurance? ▾
Why are car repair costs increasing? ▾
What percentage of cars are written off? ▾
By understanding the most common car insurance claims and the reasons behind them, you can take steps to avoid them. Driving more carefully, especially in urban areas, and ensuring your policy provides the right cover for your needs are key. If this was useful, you might also want to read Tips for State Minimum Liability on Your Car Insurance.
Sources and Further Reading
The most common car insurance claims — Which?, 2024.
UK Car Insurance Claims Statistics. Smart Motoring.
UK Motor Claims: Why Write-Offs Are Rising and How Drivers Can Stay Protected. Business Money, 2025.
Tips for State Minimum Liability on Your Car Insurance — This article explains the basics of liability cover, which is crucial for understanding what your insurance policy covers in case of an accident.
Quick Tips for Affordable Car Insurance for Young Drivers in the UK — If you’re a younger driver, this guide offers practical advice on how to manage car insurance costs, which can be higher due to claim statistics.
