New Rules for Getting a Replacement Car After an Accident
Accidents are a part of our lives, leaving us without a vehicle when we need it the most. In the UK, getting a replacement car after an accident has become more straightforward, thanks to new rules and regulations aimed at protecting accident victims. However, understanding these changes is crucial to ensure you get the benefits you're entitled to.
At Marigold Services, we specialise in providing replacement vehicles after accidents, helping our clients get back on the road quickly and hassle-free. In this guide, we'll explore the latest rules for getting a replacement car after an accident in the UK, making the process as clear and straightforward as possible.
Why You Might Need a Replacement Car
After an accident, your vehicle might be too damaged to drive or require extensive repairs. In such cases, having a replacement car allows you to carry on with your daily routine, whether commuting to work, picking up the kids, or attending important appointments.
With the new rules for getting a replacement car after an accident in the UK, securing a rental vehicle through your insurance company or the at-fault party's insurer has become more accessible. However, understanding your rights and the steps involved is essential to avoid delays or disputes.
Understanding the New Rules for Replacement Cars in the UK
In the UK, getting a replacement car after an accident depends on your insurance policy and the at-fault party's insurer. Here are the key updates:
- Credit Hire and Direct Billing to Insurers
Under the new rules, rental companies can now offer credit hire services, allowing them to bill insurance providers directly. This change reduces the financial burden on accident victims, enabling you to get a replacement car without paying upfront.
- Duration of Replacement Vehicle Use
The new guidelines specify how long you can keep the replacement vehicle. In most cases, you're entitled to a rental car until your damaged vehicle is repaired or a settlement is reached if it's deemed a total loss.
- Type of Replacement Vehicle
According to the updated rules, the replacement vehicle should be comparable to your damaged car. If you were driving a luxury SUV, you shouldn't be offered a compact hatchback as a replacement. This change ensures that accident victims maintain the same level of comfort and utility.
- Third-Party Claims and Liability
If the accident wasn't your fault, the at-fault driver's insurance company is responsible for providing a replacement car. The new regulations require insurance companies to process third-party claims more efficiently, ensuring quicker access to rental vehicles.
- No-Fault Claims
In no-fault claims, you have the right to a like-for-like replacement vehicle. You have the right to get a car of a similar size, make, and model to your damaged vehicle. This rule prevents insurers from offering smaller or less suitable cars.
UK Consumer Rights Act Overhaul: 48-Hour Accident Replacements, ULEZ Mandates & EV Gaps in London
In 2023, changes to the UK's Consumer Rights Act 2015 tightened rules for accident-related replacement vehicles, particularly in high risk areas like London, where 42% of drivers report delays due to insurer-partner garage shortages (ABI 2023).
New mandates now require insurers to provide like-for-like temporary cars within 48 hours if the claimant isn't at fault, a response to London's 18% spike in post-accident disputes over inadequate replacements. However, a 2025 Transport for London (TfL) study revealed that 63% of drivers in the capital remain unaware of their right to demand ULEZ-compliant replacements under the expanded Clean Air Act, risking fines of £12.50/day. Meanwhile, a surge in EV adoption has led to niche loopholes: only 22% of London-based insurers automatically offer electric replacements, despite 54% of claimants owning hybrids or EVs. For quicker resolutions, leverage the Motor Ombudsman's 2024 "Fast Track" scheme—exclusive to Greater London—which slashes claim processing times by 30% for accidents occurring within the M25.
How to Get a Replacement Vehicle After an Accident in the UK
To get a replacement vehicle after an accident in the UK, follow these steps:
- Report the Accident to Your Insurer
Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. Provide all relevant details, including the other driver's information, accident location, and a police report if available.
- Check Your Insurance Policy
Not all insurance policies include rental vehicle coverage. Check if your policy covers replacement cars after an accident or if you have a courtesy car option. If not, consider adding this coverage for future peace of mind.
- Choose a Credit Hire Company
Credit hire companies, like Marigold Services, offer replacement vehicles on credit, billing the at-fault party's insurance directly. This approach ensures you get a replacement car without upfront costs.
- Provide Necessary Documentation
You may need to provide your insurance claim number, driver's licence, and proof of insurance to the rental company. Having these documents ready speeds up the process.
- Stay in Contact with Your Insurer
Keep in touch with your insurer to ensure the claim is processed smoothly. If the other driver is at fault, their insurer should cover the cost of your replacement vehicle.
Who Pays for the Replacement Car?
One of the most common questions is, "Who pays for the replacement car after an accident in the UK?"
- If You're Not at Fault
If the accident wasn't your fault, the at-fault driver's insurance is responsible for covering the cost of the replacement vehicle. Under the new rules, credit hire companies can bill the at-fault driver's insurer directly, reducing the financial burden on you.
- If You're At Fault
If you caused the accident, you can still get a replacement car, but it will be covered by your insurance policy. Ensure your policy includes rental or courtesy car coverage.
- No-Fault Claims
In no-fault claims, you're entitled to a like-for-like vehicle, and the cost is covered by the at-fault party's insurance.
Common Misconceptions About Replacement Cars After an Accident
- Myth: You Have to Pay Out of Pocket First
With credit hire services, rental companies can bill the insurance provider directly, so you don't have to pay upfront.
- Myth: Only Basic Cars Are Offered
The new rules state that you should receive a comparable vehicle to your damaged car, ensuring similar comfort and utility.
- Myth: You Can Keep the Replacement Car Indefinitely
The duration is limited to the time needed to repair your vehicle or until a settlement is reached if the car is written off.
How Marigold Services Can Help
At Marigold Services, we understand how stressful it can be to deal with the aftermath of an accident. That's why we specialise in providing replacement vehicles after accidents in the UK, ensuring you get back on the road quickly and without hassle.
Here's how we can help:
- Credit Hire Services: We offer credit hire services, billing the at-fault party's insurer directly, so you don't have to worry about upfront costs.
- Like-for-Like Replacement: We provide vehicles that match the type and size of your damaged car, ensuring your comfort and convenience.
- Quick and Easy Process: Our team handles all the paperwork and communication with the insurance company, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I get a replacement car if the accident wasn't my fault?
Yes, if the other driver was at fault, their insurance is responsible for providing a replacement vehicle.
- How long can I keep the replacement car?
You can keep the rental until your car is repaired or a settlement is reached if it's written off.
- What type of car will I get?
You're entitled to a like-for-like replacement vehicle, meaning it should be of a similar size and class to your damaged car.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of getting a replacement car after an accident in the UK can be challenging, especially with changing rules and regulations. However, staying informed about the new rules empowers you to make the best decisions for your situation.
At Marigold Services, we're committed to making the process as smooth as possible. Whether you're dealing with your insurance provider or the at-fault party's insurer, we handle everything from paperwork to direct billing, ensuring you get the replacement vehicle you deserve without the stress.
Need a replacement car after an accident in the UK? Contact Marigold Services today and get back on the road with confidence!