Hiring a car after a road accident can be stressful and expensive. Many drivers face unexpected charges, hidden fees, and difficulties in dealing with claims. This guide will help you navigate the process, save money, and ensure you don’t get taken advantage of. We’ll also cover how much compensation you may be able to claim and how National Claims can help connect you with experienced solicitors to handle your case.
What to Do After a Road Accident Before Hiring a Car
Before considering car hire, it’s crucial to follow the right steps after a road accident:
- Report the Accident – Inform the police about the incident. If there are injuries, you must report it to the police within 24 hours.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos, collect witness statements, and get the other driver’s details.
- Check Claims Cover – Your claim may cover temporary vehicle hire, so check your policy before paying out of pocket.
- Understand Your Rights – If the accident was not your fault, you may be entitled to a courtesy car or claim back car hire expenses.
The Process
After a road accident, hiring a car can be a necessity, but the costs can quickly add up. Many drivers fall into costly traps set by car rental companies and insurers. Here’s how to save on car hire and ensure you don’t get ripped off:
1. Choose a Credit Hire Vehicle Instead of a Rental Car
A credit hire company (often arranged through a claims management company) provides a like-for-like replacement vehicle at no upfront cost. If you’re not at fault, the at-fault driver’s insurer covers the cost. This is better than traditional car rental, where you pay upfront and claim later.
2. Avoid Paying Upfront for a Hire Car
Companies may suggest you pay for a hire car first and claim it back later. This process can be slow, and insurers might not reimburse you fully. Instead, opt for a claims management company that arranges a credit hire car without requiring any initial payment.
3. Be Wary of Excessive Excess Charges
Rental companies often charge high excess fees if you have an accident. Instead of taking their costly excess waiver, which is much cheaper.
4. Book Through a Claims Management Company, Not Your Insurer
Insurers may offer a courtesy car, but these are usually small, basic models and might not be available if your vehicle is written off. A claims management company ensures you get a comparable vehicle while your claim is processed.
5. Return the Car on Time and Refill the Fuel Tank
Rental companies impose hefty late fees and fuel refill charges. Always return the car on time and refuel before dropping it off to avoid extra costs.
6. Check for Hidden Fees
Read the terms carefully to spot hidden charges like mileage limits, admin fees, or cleaning costs. Claims management firms usually arrange straightforward agreements with no surprise charges.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
If you were involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount you can claim depends on the severity of the accident, injuries sustained, and financial losses such as car hire costs.
Typical Compensation Amounts for Road Traffic Accidents
According to the Judicial College Guidelines, the following are estimated compensation amounts for common injuries:
- Minor Whiplash – Up to £4,215 (based on recent reforms under the Whiplash Injury Regulations
- Moderate Neck Injuries – £7,000 to £12,000
- Serious Neck or Back Injuries – £34,000+
- Loss of Earnings – Depends on your salary and time off work
- Car Hire and Repair Costs – Fully recoverable if the accident wasn’t your fault.
How National Claims Can Help You
If you’ve been in a road accident and need to hire a car while awaiting compensation, National Claims can connect you with experienced solicitors. They will help you:
- Assess your case and determine if you’re eligible for compensation
- Claim back the cost of car hire if the accident wasn’t your fault
- Handle negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurer
- Ensure you receive the maximum compensation for injuries and losses
With expert guidance, you can avoid unnecessary costs and get the compensation you deserve.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a car after an accident doesn’t have to drain your finances. By following these tips, you can save money, avoid rip-offs, and ensure you claim the compensation you’re entitled to. If you need help with your claim, National Claims will put you in touch with experienced solicitors who can guide you through the process and fight for your rights.
For legal support and compensation claims, Contact National Claims today!
FAQs
1. Can I claim car hire costs if the accident wasn’t my fault?
Yes, you can recover the costs from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
2. How long can I keep a hire car after an accident?
This depends on your insurer or claim settlement. Some policies allow you to keep it until your car is repaired or replaced.
3. How do I start a compensation claim?
Get in touch with National Claims, who will connect you with expert solicitors to guide you through the process.
Contact National Claims today, and we will put you in touch with an expert solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.📞 Call us now free 0800 029 3849 or 📩 Submit an online enquiry to speak to our team. Your safety and well-being matter, and we’re here to help.
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This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
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