How to Secure a Replacement Vehicle After a Road Traffic Accident
A road traffic accident can be one of the most stressful experiences for any driver. Beyond the immediate concerns of safety, insurance claims, and vehicle repairs, there is often another urgent issue to address: how to secure a replacement vehicle. Whether you need a car for work, family obligations, or daily errands, being left without transportation can seriously disrupt your life.
This guide explains everything you need to know about securing a replacement vehicle after an accident, including the options available, the role of insurance, legal considerations, and practical tips to get back on the road quickly.
1. Why You Might Need a Replacement Vehicle
After an accident, your car may be:
- Temporarily out of use – while waiting for inspection or minor repairs.
- Declared a total loss (write-off) – if the cost of repairs exceeds the vehicle’s value.
- Held by police or insurers – in certain cases, such as if an investigation is required.
In any of these scenarios, you will need a temporary vehicle to avoid disruption to your daily routine. A replacement vehicle ensures that you can continue your normal activities while the insurance and repair process takes place.
2. Replacement Vehicle Options After an Accident
There are several ways you can secure a replacement car depending on your insurance coverage, the circumstances of the accident, and your personal finances.
(a) Through Your Insurance Policy
Many comprehensive car insurance policies include a courtesy car or hire car cover. This usually means:
- You will receive a temporary vehicle from your insurer while your car is being repaired at an approved garage.
- The type of vehicle provided may depend on your policy. Standard policies usually cover a small hatchback, but higher-tier insurance may allow you to request a similar-sized car to your own.
- The car is generally available until repairs are complete.
Limitations:
- If your car is written off, the courtesy car may only be provided for a fixed period (often 7–14 days).
- If the accident was your fault and you don’t have replacement cover, your insurer may not provide a car at all.
(b) Through the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
If the accident was not your fault, you are legally entitled to claim for the cost of a replacement vehicle from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This is often arranged through a credit hire company (more on this below).
Benefits include:
- You can usually get a vehicle that matches the size and type of your own (e.g., family car, van, or executive car).
- The cost is covered by the other driver’s insurer, not you.
(c) Credit Hire Services
A credit hire service provides you with a replacement vehicle immediately after an accident, with payment deferred until the claim is settled. These companies work directly with solicitors and insurance providers to recover the costs from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
Advantages:
- No upfront payment is required.
- Vehicle is usually delivered to you quickly.
- Often a like-for-like replacement vehicle is provided.
However:
- This option is only available if the accident was not your fault.
- If liability is disputed, you may be responsible for costs if the claim fails.
(d) Car Hire Out of Pocket
If neither insurance nor credit hire is an option, you can rent a vehicle privately. This is often the fastest option but can be expensive, especially if you need the car for several weeks.
(e) Courtesy Cars from Repair Garages
Some repair shops provide courtesy cars directly, even if your insurer does not. These are usually small vehicles, but they can be useful if you need something immediately.
3. Steps to Secure a Replacement Vehicle Quickly
When you’re involved in an accident, timing is crucial. The faster you act, the sooner you’ll have a replacement vehicle. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Notify Your Insurance Company
- Call your insurer immediately after the accident.
- Ask whether your policy includes a courtesy car or hire car benefit.
- Clarify how long you will have the replacement and what type of vehicle it will be.
Step 2: Determine Liability
- If the accident was not your fault, you can claim costs from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
- Your insurer or a solicitor may arrange a replacement car for you under a credit hire agreement.
Step 3: Contact a Credit Hire Company (if applicable)
- If your insurer does not provide a replacement, look for credit hire services.
- They will ask for accident details and confirm liability before supplying a vehicle.
Step 4: Arrange Vehicle Delivery
- Replacement cars are often delivered to your home or workplace.
- Ensure you have your driving licence and insurance documents ready.
Step 5: Keep Records
- Maintain copies of all documents, including hire agreements, accident reports, and communication with insurers.
- This ensures you are not held liable for unnecessary costs later.
4. Legal Considerations
When securing a replacement vehicle, there are a few important legal points to keep in mind:
- Duty to Mitigate Loss: You are expected to act reasonably. For example, you cannot hire a luxury car at high cost if you normally drive a small hatchback.
- Insurance Cover: Ensure that the replacement vehicle is properly insured. Some hire companies include cover, while others may require you to use your own insurance.
- Driving Licence Requirements: Always make sure your licence type covers the replacement car you are provided.
5. Common Issues and How to Overcome Them
Issue 1: Delays from Insurance Companies
Some insurers take time to process claims before authorising a replacement vehicle.
Solution: Use a credit hire company if you need a vehicle urgently.
Issue 2: No Like-for-Like Vehicle Available
You may be offered a smaller or less suitable car than your own.
Solution: If the accident wasn’t your fault, insist on a similar vehicle from the at-fault insurer.
Issue 3: Liability Disputes
If both drivers blame each other, replacement vehicle costs may be delayed.
Solution: Keep all evidence of the accident (photos, witness statements, police report) to strengthen your claim.
6. Practical Tips to Speed Up the Process
- Check your insurance policy today – know whether you have courtesy car cover before an accident happens.
- Keep emergency contacts handy – including your insurer’s claims helpline and a trusted solicitor.
- Have your documents ready – driving licence, insurance certificate, accident report.
- Act quickly – delays in reporting can lead to complications.
- Be realistic – if you normally drive a compact car, expect a similar replacement rather than a high-end model.
7. The Role of Solicitors in Securing a Replacement Vehicle
In many cases, especially in the UK, solicitors play a crucial role in arranging replacement vehicles under credit hire agreements. They:
- Work with hire companies to provide a car immediately.
- Handle communication with the at-fault driver’s insurer.
- Ensure the cost is recovered, so you do not have to pay upfront.
If your accident involves injury claims alongside vehicle damage, a solicitor can also handle both processes together.
8. What Happens if Your Car is Written Off?
If your car is declared a total loss:
- You may only keep a courtesy car for a limited period (e.g., 14 days).
- Your insurer will offer you a settlement based on the market value of your vehicle.
- Once you purchase a replacement vehicle, you will need to return the courtesy car.
In this case, arranging a credit hire vehicle through the at-fault insurer may provide longer-term support.
9. Costs of Replacement Vehicles
Courtesy cars (from insurers or garages) are usually free.
Credit hire vehicles are paid for by the at-fault insurer but can be expensive.
Private rentals can cost £30–£100 per day depending on the vehicle type.
It’s important to choose the most cost-effective option to avoid being left out of pocket if disputes arise.
10. Final Checklist Before Driving Away in a Replacement Vehicle
Before you accept a replacement car:
- Inspect the vehicle for damage and note it in the agreement.
- Check mileage limits and fuel policy.
- Confirm whether insurance is included or if you must use your own.
- Ask how long you can keep the car.
- Keep all paperwork safe.
Conclusion
Securing a replacement vehicle after a road traffic accident can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, you can get back on the road quickly and without unnecessary expense. The key is to know your options in advance, act promptly, and use the resources available to you—whether through your insurance policy, the at-fault driver’s insurer, or a credit hire company.
By understanding the process, you protect your rights, avoid delays, and ensure that your life carries on smoothly, even when your own vehicle is out of action.