Drivers involved in an accident face delays of up to THREE MONTHS to get vehicles back

Drivers involved in an accident face delays of up to three months to get their cars back on the road.

The problem has been caused by shortages of crash repairers, skilled technicians, car parts and even a lack of lease vehicles.

Up to 100,000 people are currently waiting for repairs, according to the National Body Repair Association (NBRA).

Drivers involved in an accident face delays of up to three months to get their cars back on the road. A stock image is used above

It said under usual circumstances insurers collect the car in a couple of days, repair it in seven to ten days and provide a courtesy car.

However, it added: ‘If a driver had a crash today, there is every chance they would have to wait five weeks before their car can go in for repairs. Some unlucky drivers are being given dates in May for repairs to start.’

As a result, it said some overstretched bodyshops have started tearing up contracts with the lowest paying car insurers.

Up to 100,000 people are currently waiting for repairs, according to the National Body Repair Association (NBRA) 

NBRA director Chris Weeks said: ‘We have been predicting this situation for well over a year and pushing for urgent improvements to help with inflation as more bodyshops go out of business or lose staff they cannot afford to keep.

‘Some insurers are at least listening and changing as much as they can in a competitive market. Still, most executives seem to be doing little or nothing to help.’

The organisation is asking for higher rates or a £250 prioritisation surcharge to help bodyshops retain staff and cover inflation.