Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a third party claim if I was a passenger?
Yes. Passengers can claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer for injuries, lost income, and damaged property. You do not need to know which driver was at fault. We will investigate that for you.
Will it cost me anything to start a claim?
No. Your initial claim assessment is completely free. Where your claim qualifies, we work on a No Win No Fee basis. We explain this clearly during your first call.
How do I know if the other driver was at fault?
Fault is determined by the circumstances of the accident, witness statements, police reports, and traffic laws. We review all of this during your free assessment and advise you honestly.
What if the at-fault driver is uninsured?
You may still have options. We can explore whether the driver has assets, whether their employer carries insurance, or whether other avenues exist. We explain your choices during your assessment.
Can I claim for more than just car repairs?
Yes. We claim for damaged phones, glasses, lost wages, medical costs, and other accident-related expenses. Many clients are surprised by how much they can recover.
Do I have to deal with the insurer myself?
No. We deal with the at-fault driver, their employer, and their insurer on your behalf. You focus on getting back to normal life.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply under Victorian law. It is best to start your claim as soon as possible so evidence is fresh and witnesses are easier to contact. Call us to check your deadline.
Can I get a rental car while mine is being repaired?
In many cases, yes. We can arrange to have a rental car delivered to your door while conditions apply. We explain the details when we review your claim.
What documents do I need to start?
To begin, we need basic details about the accident, the other driver’s details, and any police report number. We help you collect everything else as your claim progresses.
Why should I choose TP Claims instead of handling it myself?
Insurance companies have experienced teams working to minimise payouts. We level the playing field. Our specialists know the system, speak the language insurers understand, and fight for fair outcomes. You save time, avoid stress, and often recover more.
Frequently Asked Questions - Not At Fault Car Accident Claims Melbourne
Can I make a claim if I do not have the other driver's insurance details?
Yes. We can often identify the at fault driver’s insurer through the vehicle registration number. You do not need their policy number to start.
What if the other driver says the accident was my fault?
Disputes are common. We gather evidence such as dash cam footage, witness statements, and police reports to establish what happened. We then present this to the insurer to support your position.
Will I have to go to court?
Most claims settle without court. We negotiate directly with the insurer to reach a fair agreement. Court is only necessary if the insurer refuses to accept liability or offers an unreasonably low settlement.
Can I get a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
In many cases, yes. We can arrange a rental car delivered to your door while your claim is processed, subject to conditions.
What documents do I need to start my claim?
We usually need your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, photos of the damage, any police report details, and receipts for expenses. We guide you through exactly what is needed during your free assessment.
How do I know if I am eligible for a not at fault claim?
You are generally eligible if another party caused the accident and you suffered losses. During your free assessment, we review the facts and give you an honest answer.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply under Victorian law. It is best to start your claim as soon as possible so evidence is fresh and witnesses are easier to contact. Call us to check your deadline.
Does it matter if the at fault driver is uninsured?
You can still claim even if the at fault driver is uninsured. We may pursue the driver directly or look at other avenues. We explain your options during your assessment.
What if I was injured but did not go to hospital?
You can still claim. See a doctor as soon as possible after the accident to document your injuries. Medical records form an important part of your claim.
How much will this cost me?
We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis where applicable. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you. We explain our fees transparently before you proceed.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply in Victoria. You should start your claim as soon as possible to protect your rights. Delaying can make it harder to gather evidence. Contact us for a free assessment to check your timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions - Car Repair Claims Melbourne
Can I choose my own repairer for insurance approved repairs Melbourne?
In many cases, yes. While insurers often recommend preferred repairers, you generally have the right to choose who fixes your car. We help you understand your options and ensure the insurer covers the full cost.
What if the insurer says my car is a write-off?
If the repair cost exceeds the pre-accident market value, the insurer may declare your car a total loss. We negotiate to ensure you receive fair market value, not just the insurer’s first offer.
Do I need to pay for repairs upfront and claim later?
No. In most not at fault claims, we arrange for the at fault insurer to pay the repairer directly or reimburse you once the claim is settled. You should not have to outlay thousands for someone else’s mistake.
Can I claim for a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
Yes, in many cases. We can arrange a rental car delivered to your door while your claim is processed, subject to conditions.
What documents do I need to start my claim?
We usually need your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, photos of the damage, any police report details, and repair quotes. We guide you through exactly what is needed during your free assessment.
How do I know if I am eligible for a car repair claim?
You are generally eligible if another party caused the accident and your vehicle was damaged. During your free assessment, we review the facts and give you an honest answer.
Does it matter if the at fault driver is uninsured?
You can still claim even if the at fault driver is uninsured. We may pursue the driver directly or look at other avenues. We explain your options during your assessment.
What if the insurer's repair quote is too low?
This happens often. We obtain independent repair quotes and present evidence to justify the true cost. We do not accept lowball offers that leave you with an unsafe or poorly repaired vehicle.
How much will this cost me?
We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis where applicable. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you. We explain our fees transparently before you proceed.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply in Victoria. You should start your claim as soon as possible to protect your rights. Delaying can make it harder to gather evidence. Contact us for a free assessment to check your timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions - Car Write Off Claims Melbourne
What does it mean when an insurer writes off my car?
A write-off means the cost to repair your vehicle exceeds its pre-accident market value. The insurer will offer a payout based on what they believe the car was worth before the crash.
How is the payout amount calculated?
Insurers use market data, repair quotes, and their own assessors to determine value. We obtain independent valuations and comparable sales to ensure the offer reflects the true pre-accident market value.
Can I keep my written-off car and still get a payout?
In some cases, yes. You may be able to retain the damaged vehicle and receive a reduced payout. We can explain how this works and whether it makes sense for your situation.
What if the insurer's offer is lower than what I owe on finance?
This is called a shortfall. We negotiate aggressively to maximise your payout. If there is still a gap, we can discuss your options, though we cannot guarantee the insurer will cover the full amount owed.
Can I claim for a rental car while I replace my written-off vehicle?
Yes, in many cases. We can arrange a rental car delivered to your door while your claim is processed, subject to conditions.
What documents do I need to start my claim?
We usually need your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, proof of ownership, service history, photos of the damage, and receipts for extras. We guide you through exactly what is needed during your free assessment.
How do I know if I am eligible for a write-off claim?
You are generally eligible if another party caused the accident and your vehicle was declared a total loss. During your free assessment, we review the facts and give you an honest answer.
Does it matter if the at fault driver is uninsured?
You can still make a claim even if the at fault driver is uninsured. We may pursue the driver directly or look at other avenues. We explain your options during your assessment.
How much will this cost me?
We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis where applicable. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you. We explain our fees transparently before you proceed.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply in Victoria. You should start your claim as soon as possible to protect your rights. Delaying can make it harder to gather evidence. Contact us for a free assessment to check your timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions - Rental Car After Accident Claims Melbourne
Am I entitled to a free hire car after an accident Melbourne wide?
If you are not at fault, you are generally entitled to a replacement vehicle while yours is being repaired or replaced. The at fault insurer should cover the cost, though they may try to delay or refuse. We handle this for you.
What type of replacement vehicle can I get?
You are generally entitled to a vehicle similar to your own. If you drive a family SUV, a small hatchback may not be suitable. We push for a like-for-like replacement based on your needs.
How long can I keep the rental car?
You can usually keep the replacement vehicle until your car is repaired or until you receive a settlement for a write-off. If the insurer tries to cut this short, we challenge them on your behalf.
What if the insurer refuses to pay for a rental car?
This happens often. We gather evidence of your need for transport and present it to the insurer. If they continue to refuse, we escalate the matter and explore all available options.
Can I claim for a rental car if I was not the driver?
Yes. If you own the damaged vehicle and were a passenger at the time of the accident, you can still claim for a replacement vehicle from the at fault insurer.
What documents do I need to start my claim?
We usually need your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, photos of the damage, repair quotes, and proof of ownership. We guide you through exactly what is needed during your free assessment.
How do I know if I am eligible for a not at fault rental car Melbourne?
You are generally eligible if another party caused the accident and your vehicle is undriveable or being repaired. During your free assessment, we review the facts and give you an honest answer.
Does it matter if the at fault driver is uninsured?
You can still make a claim even if the at fault driver is uninsured. We may pursue the driver directly or look at other avenues. We explain your options during your assessment.
How much will this cost me?
We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis where applicable. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you. We explain our fees transparently before you proceed.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply in Victoria. You should start your claim as soon as possible to protect your rights. Delaying can make it harder to gather evidence. Contact us for a free assessment to check your timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions - Towing Cost Recovery Claims Melbourne
Who pays the tow truck after an accident in Melbourne?
If you were not at fault, the at fault driver or their insurer should pay for towing. We pursue them directly so you do not have to worry about who pays tow truck after accident.
Can I claim towing fees if my car was towed to a repairer of my choice?
Yes. While insurers may suggest preferred repairers, you generally have the right to choose where your car is towed. We help ensure the insurer covers the full towing cost regardless of the destination.
What if the insurer says the towing bill was too high?
This happens often. We obtain independent evidence and present facts to justify the true cost of the tow. We do not accept lowball offers that leave you out of pocket for reasonable towing fees.
Do I need to pay for towing upfront and claim later?
No. In most not at fault claims, we arrange for the at fault insurer to reimburse you or pay the tow truck company directly. You should not have to outlay hundreds for someone else’s mistake.
Can I claim for storage fees as well as towing?
Yes. If your vehicle was stored at a tow yard while the claim was processed, those storage fees are often recoverable. We include every eligible cost in your claim.
What documents do I need to start my towing claim?
We usually need your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, photos of the accident scene, the towing invoice, and any police report details. We guide you through exactly what is needed during your free assessment.
How do I know if I am eligible for towing cost recovery?
You are generally eligible if another party caused the accident and your vehicle was towed. During your free assessment, we review the facts and give you an honest answer.
Does it matter if the at fault driver is uninsured?
You can still claim even if the at fault driver is uninsured. We may pursue the driver directly or look at other avenues. We explain your options during your assessment.
How much will this cost me?
We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis where applicable. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you. We explain our fees transparently before you proceed.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply in Victoria. You should start your claim as soon as possible to protect your rights. Delaying can make it harder to gather evidence. Contact us for a free assessment to check your deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions - Accident Expense Recovery Claims Melbourne
What out of pocket expenses can I claim after a car accident?
You can generally claim towing, hire cars, medical treatment, lost wages, and damaged personal items. During your free assessment, we review your receipts and tell you exactly what is recoverable.
Do I need to pay for expenses upfront and claim later?
In many cases, yes — but we help you recover those costs from the at fault insurer. For some expenses like hire cars, we may be able to arrange direct billing so you are not out of pocket.
Can I claim for lost wages after a not-at-fault accident?
Yes. If you missed work due to injuries from the crash, we can include lost income in your claim. We use your payslips and medical certificates to calculate the amount.
What if the insurer says my expenses were not necessary?
This happens often. We obtain independent evidence and present facts to justify each expense. We do not accept lowball offers that leave you out of pocket for reasonable costs.
Can I claim for a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
Yes, in many cases. We can arrange a rental car delivered to your door while your claim is processed, subject to conditions.
What documents do I need to start my claim?
We usually need your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, photos of the damage, receipts for expenses, and any police report details. We guide you through exactly what is needed during your free assessment.
How do I know if I am eligible for accident expense recovery?
You are generally eligible if another party caused the accident and you paid costs out of pocket. During your free assessment, we review the facts and give you an honest answer.
Does it matter if the at fault driver is uninsured?
You can still claim even if the at fault driver is uninsured. We may pursue the driver directly or look at other avenues. We explain your options during your assessment.
How much will this cost me?
We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis where applicable. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you. We explain our fees transparently before you proceed.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Time limits apply in Victoria. You should start your claim as soon as possible to protect your rights. Delaying can make it harder to gather evidence. Contact us for a free assessment to check your deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions - Lost Income Claims Melbourne
Can I claim lost wages if I am a casual employee?
Yes. Casual workers can claim lost income based on their average earnings from recent payslips or bank statements. We work with you to calculate a fair amount that reflects your typical hours and pay rate.
What if I used sick leave or annual leave after the accident?
You can still claim. Even if you were paid through leave entitlements, those days were taken because of the accident. We pursue the insurer to reimburse you for that lost leave or the income you would have earned.
How is my lost income calculated?
We calculate your lost wages using payslips, tax returns, and employer letters. For self-employed people, we use tax returns and business records. The goal is to show exactly what you would have earned if the accident had not happened.
Can I claim for future lost earnings?
Yes, if your injuries will keep you away from work long-term or reduce your earning capacity. We work with medical experts and financial records to support a claim for future income loss.
What documents do I need to prove lost income?
We usually need your driver’s licence, medical certificates, payslips or tax returns, and a letter from your employer confirming your time off. We guide you through exactly what is needed during your free assessment.
Can self-employed people make a lost income claim?
Yes. Tradies, sole traders, and small business owners can all claim lost income. We work with your accountant or bookkeeper to calculate the true financial impact of your time away from work.
How do I know if I am eligible for a lost income claim?
You are generally eligible if another party caused the accident and you lost wages because of it. During your free assessment, we review the facts and give you an honest answer.
Does it matter if the at fault driver is uninsured?
You can still claim even if the at fault driver is uninsured. We may pursue the driver directly or look at other avenues. We explain your options during your assessment.
What if the insurer says my time off work was not caused by the accident?
This happens often. We obtain medical reports and expert opinions to prove the link between the crash and your injuries. We do not accept denials that leave you out of pocket for legitimate lost wages.
How much will this cost me?
We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis where applicable. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover money for you. We explain our fees transparently before you proceed.