Replacement Vehicle Options When Your Car Is Being Repaired

Your Options for a Replacement Vehicle

When your car is off the road after an accident, you need to get around. Here are the main options and what to consider with each.

Option 1: Use Your Own Insurance Cover

If you have comprehensive insurance with rental car cover:

• Contact your insurer to arrange a rental
• You may need to pay excess upfront
• The rental may be limited in duration or vehicle class
• This uses your own policy, not the at-fault driver's

Option 2: Direct Rental (Self-Funded)

You can rent a vehicle yourself and seek reimbursement:

• You pay for the rental upfront
• Claim reimbursement from the at-fault party's insurer
• Keep all receipts and rental agreements
• Recovery is not guaranteed and may take time

Option 3: Insurer-Approved Replacement

Some at-fault insurers will directly arrange a replacement:

• The insurer pays the rental company directly
• Usually limited to the repair period
• Vehicle class may be basic
• Generally the simplest option if available

Option 4: Credit Hire Arrangements

Credit hire involves using a vehicle on a "no upfront cost" basis, with the costs recovered from the at-fault party:

How it works:

• You receive a vehicle without paying upfront
• The hire company pursues recovery from the at-fault insurer
• If recovery is successful, you pay nothing
• If recovery fails or is partial, you may be liable for some costs

Important considerations:

• Daily rates can be higher than standard rentals
• You must read and understand the hire agreement
• Check what happens if liability is disputed
• Understand any obligations (providing statements, attending court if needed)

What OneCallClaims Does

We work with both rental and credit hire providers. We will:

• Explain the options available for your situation
• Be clear about any agreements and what they mean
• Not pressure you into any arrangement
• Recommend you read all documents before signing

Questions to Ask About Any Replacement Vehicle

Who is responsible for the cost?

What happens if the at-fault insurer doesn't pay?

What are the daily rates?

Is there a limit on how long I can have the vehicle?

What are my obligations under the agreement?

Can I get a similar vehicle to my own car?

Our Commitment to Transparency

We believe you should understand your options before making a decision. We will:

• Provide clear, plain-English explanations
• Never hide costs or obligations in fine print
• Encourage you to ask questions
• Support your right to choose the option that suits you

If you're unsure about any replacement vehicle arrangement, don't sign until you understand it – and feel free to contact us with questions.