After the Event (ATE) insurance is a specialist policy designed to cover legal expenses when you make a personal injury claim, and it's typically arranged after your accident. ATE insurance is a key part of any no win, no fee injury claim as it ensures that you’re not left out of pocket if your claim is unsuccessful.
How does ATE insurance work in no win, no fee claims?
ATE insurance is the key component that makes personal injury claims possible.
When you make a no win, no fee personal injury claim, you enter into a "Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA)" with your solicitor. This agreement means you won’t have to pay legal fees if your case isn’t successful. However, without ATE insurance, you would still be responsible for the defendant’s legal fees and certain costs incurred during the legal process.
ATE insurance covers these expenses, including:
- The defendant's legal fees if you lose the case
- Court fees
- Medical reports
- Expert witness fees
- Barrister's fees
- Travel expenses
Together with a CFA, ATE insurance allows you to pursue a claim without the financial risk of paying large legal bills if your case doesn’t succeed.
See also:
How do Conditional Fee Agreements (CFA) work?
Who pays the ATE insurance premium?
As a claimant, you only pay for ATE insurance if your claim is successful. The cost of the policy is deducted from your compensation award at the end of the claim. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay for the ATE insurance.
How is ATE insurance arranged?
Your solicitor will arrange ATE insurance when you begin your claim. They’ll obtain quotes from various insurers and select a policy that offers the best cover for your specific case. The premium is typically nominal and depends on the type of claim, the complexity of your case, and the level of cover needed.
When is ATE insurance paid for?
ATE insurance premiums are not paid upfront. Instead, the premium is settled at the conclusion of the claim, once the defendant has paid your compensation. This means you won’t have to worry about any payments until your claim is resolved.
How ATE insurance facilitates marginal cases
ATE insurance is especially valuable for claimants who may have a less certain case. Even if your case is borderline, ATE insurance enables you to pursue your claim with legal representation, without the fear of being left with significant legal costs if you lose.
Speak to a solicitor
Our legal expertise, combined with our passion for cycling, gives us unique insight into the challenges injured cyclists face. We work with solicitors experienced in cycling-related cases, handling everything from thorough accident investigations to accurate bike repair assessments and complex claims management. We understand the full impact of cycling injuries and offer tailored guidance to address your specific needs.
Your solicitor will guide you through the ATE insurance process at the start of making a no win, no fee claim, helping you understand the costs and cover options available. They’ll ensure you have the right protection in place, so you can focus on your recovery and claim.
Written by Chris Salmon on 22nd February 2023