Your Rights to a Hire Car After an Accident That Wasn't Your Fault

If someone else caused your accident, you may be entitled to a free hire car while yours is repaired — even if your insurer doesn't tell you this upfront.

One of the least-known rights after a non-fault accident is the right to a replacement vehicle — at no cost to you, recovered from the at-fault driver's insurer.

The Basic Principle

In English law, if someone causes an accident that wasn't your fault, you are entitled to be put back in the position you were in before the accident. If your car is off the road as a result, a replacement vehicle is part of that entitlement.

How It Works in Practice

Through your own insurer: If you have comprehensive cover, your insurer may provide a courtesy car while yours is repaired. However, this often depends on your policy terms and may not match your vehicle class.

Direct credit hire: You can arrange a hire vehicle directly through a credit hire company. They provide the vehicle immediately and recover the cost from the at-fault driver's insurer at the end of the claim. You pay nothing (if the non-fault is established).

The catch: Credit hire rates are often higher than standard rental rates, which can lead to disputes with the at-fault insurer about what they'll pay. A reputable credit hire company will advise you honestly about any risk.

What You Need to Prove

That the accident was not your fault (witness statements, dashcam footage, police report)

That you have a genuine need for a vehicle — you use it for work or essential journeys

That the hire vehicle is comparable to your own

The Insurer's Tactics

At-fault insurers often try to limit hire car costs by asking claimants to accept a 'basic' replacement or pushing a quick settlement. You are not legally obliged to accept less than a reasonable like-for-like replacement.

Get Advice Early

Speak to an accident management company or solicitor promptly after a non-fault accident. Time limits apply and the quality of evidence gathered immediately after the accident significantly affects your claim.

Involved in a non-fault accident in Newport, Cardiff, Bristol or Bath? Fred's Towing Services provides rapid accident recovery and can direct you to local claim support services. Call 01633 982028.