If you’ve been in a non-fault road traffic accident in the UK, you may be entitled to a hire vehicle and repair costs fully covered by the at-fault party’s insurer. Understanding the true value of your hire and repair claim includes compensation for vehicle damage, like-for-like car hire, loss of use, and associated out-of-pocket expenses. Get expert help from National Claims to ensure you receive what you’re entitled to.
Introduction
Being involved in a road traffic accident is stressful enough—but what many drivers don’t realise is that you may be entitled to far more compensation than just your vehicle’s repair bill. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you could also claim for a like-for-like hire car, repair costs, downtime, and any related expenses.
In this article, we’ll break down the true value of a hire and repair claim in the UK, and how you can make sure you’re not missing out on the compensation you deserve. Whether your car was written off or just needs bodywork, we’ll guide you through everything step by step.
What Is the True Value of a Hire and Repair Claim?
After a car accident, the value of your claim isn’t limited to just physical vehicle damage. Here are all the elements that might be included:
1. Hire Car Costs
If you’re without a vehicle due to someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t be left stranded. A credit hire company can provide you with a like-for-like vehicle, and this cost is recoverable from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
2. Vehicle Repairs
This includes everything from paintwork and parts replacement to structural repairs. You’re also entitled to use your own garage rather than one recommended by your insurer.
3. Storage and Recovery Fees
If your car had to be towed from the scene and stored, those costs can be claimed too.
4. Loss of Use
This covers the inconvenience of being without your car and can form part of your compensation, even if you didn’t take a hire vehicle.
5. Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Things like travel fares, loss of earnings from missed work, and childcare costs during your car’s downtime are all potentially recoverable.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The exact value of a hire and repair claim in the UK depends on the following:
- Type of Vehicle
The more premium your vehicle, the higher your hire and repair costs may be. A Range Rover will cost more to hire and fix than a Ford Fiesta. - Length of Downtime
If your vehicle is off the road for 2 weeks, you could be entitled to £1,200–£2,000+ in hire car costs alone. - Repair Costs
Minor repairs might cost £300–£500, while more significant work or write-offs can lead to claims of £5,000 or more. - Other Expenses
Things like storage, recovery, and inconvenience can bring your total claim to £2,000–£10,000, depending on your case.
📌 Example:
If you drive a BMW 3 Series and it’s off-road for 3 weeks due to accident damage, you may claim:
- Hire car: £1,800
- Repairs: £3,500
- Storage & recovery: £400
- Loss of use & expenses: £300
➡️ Total claim value: £6,000
Your Rights Under UK Law
Under UK law, particularly the Civil Procedure Rules (Pre-Action Protocol for Personal Injury Claims), if you weren’t at fault in an accident, you are legally entitled to be put back in the position you were in before the incident.
According to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (www.mib.org.uk) and guidance from GOV.UK, you may use credit hire services if you don’t have the means to pay upfront for a rental.
You’re also not obligated to accept the at-fault insurer’s repair garage or hire service. Many drivers don’t realise this and end up receiving less than they’re entitled to.
National Claims Can Help
At National Claims, we work with experienced solicitors who specialise in non-fault road traffic accident claims, including hire and repair disputes. We make the process simple, fast, and stress-free.
Whether your car needs fixing or you’re still waiting for a replacement vehicle, our partners can help you:
- Get a like-for-like vehicle
- Recover repair costs
- Avoid out-of-pocket expenses
- Navigate delays caused by insurers
What to Do After a Road Traffic Accident
Here’s what you should do to maximise your hire and repair claim:
- Take Photos of the Scene and Damage
Evidence is crucial for both hire and repair claims. - Exchange Details with the Other Driver
Including insurance and contact info. - Contact a Claims Expert Early
The sooner you act, the smoother the process. - Avoid Accepting the Insurer’s First Offer
You may be pressured into a basic courtesy car or a slow repair process.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Using the At-Fault Driver’s Garage
You have a legal right to choose your own repairer. - Not Keeping Receipts
Any expenses like travel or parking must be evidenced. - Delaying the Claim
The longer you wait, the harder it may be to prove your case or recover costs.
People Also Ask
❓What is a hire and repair claim?
A hire and repair claim allows a non-fault driver to get a replacement vehicle and repairs paid for by the at-fault party’s insurer after a road traffic accident.
❓Do I have to use my own insurance for hire and repair?
No. If the accident was not your fault, you can often go through a credit hire company and claim directly from the at-fault party’s insurer.
❓Can I claim for a luxury or like-for-like vehicle?
Yes, if your damaged vehicle was high-spec, you’re entitled to a similar hire vehicle while yours is being repaired.
❓What happens if the repairs take longer than expected?
You can continue to claim hire charges until your vehicle is repaired or written off. Delays caused by insurers or garages can be included in your claim.
❓Can I claim for repair costs if my car is written off?
No, but you may be entitled to the market value of the vehicle at the time of the accident, plus other associated costs like hire and loss of use.
Final Thoughts
The true value of a hire and repair claim goes far beyond just fixing your car. It includes the full cost of returning you to normal life—quickly and without financial stress. Don’t let insurers downplay your rights or delay your compensation.
✅ Start Your Claim Today
If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t settle for less. Whether you’re facing high repair bills or need a replacement vehicle now, National Claims can connect you with trusted UK solicitors who will fight for your full compensation.
📞 Get in touch today to start your no-win, no-fee claim and make sure every penny you’re owed is recovered.
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