How we help you:
- A comparable hire car for as long as yours is being repaired.
- We keep you moving with a like-for-like replacement car if yours is written off.
- No excess to pay on a non-fault claim.
- Only new and approved manufacturer parts and paint used.
- A dedicated claims handler guides you every step of the way.
Stay on the move while your claim is being sorted
We know how stressful a road traffic accident can be, and being without your car whilst you recover only adds to the pressure. That's why we make it easy to get a credit hire car, so you can get back on the road with minimal hassle and no extra costs. When you make a credit hire claim with us, there are no hidden costs or financial risk, provided you follow the terms and conditions of your agreement.
Can I get a credit hire car?
You can get a credit hire car if you were involved in a non-fault road traffic accident and your car is undrivable or currently being repaired. To be eligible, you'll need to:
- Not be at fault for the accident.
- Be over 18 years old.
- Have been driving for at least 6 months.
- Hold a valid driving licence.
What is credit hire?
Credit hire is a service that provides a like-for-like replacement vehicle to drivers involved in a non-fault road traffic accident, arranged by a car accident management company at no upfront cost to the non-fault driver.
How does credit hire work?
Step one: Tell us your story
Get in touch with our Helpline Advisors on and tell us about your road traffic accident. We'll let you know if you're eligible to make a credit hire claim.
Step two: We take care of the process
Once we've confirmed you're eligible, we'll coordinate everything on your behalf and connect you with a trusted accident management company.
Step three: Get back on the road
You'll receive a like-for-like credit hire car while yours is being repaired using approved manufacturer parts and paints only.
Will having a credit hire car affect my no-claims bonus?
No, a credit hire claim with us won't affect your no-claims bonus (NCB). That's because the costs are typically recovered through the at-fault driver's insurance, so your NCB and insurance premium stay safe.
However, even if you don't make a claim through your insurer, you are still required to notify them of the accident, which may affect your NCB or premium depending on your policy.
Who pays for credit hire cars?
The accident management company that provides your credit hire car will recover the costs directly from the at-fault driver's insurer, so you don't have to chase this yourself. If the costs can't be recovered, the claim may be passed to solicitors (either those handling your personal injury claim or a specialist firm), but there will be no charge to you for this.
What's the difference between a credit hire car and an insurer's courtesy car?
A credit hire car is arranged without going through your own insurer, so there's no need to claim on your policy. You'll also get a like-for-like vehicle, whether your car is being repaired or is written off. By contrast, a courtesy car through your insurer is usually only available during repairs and isn't guaranteed to be comparable to your car.
| Credit hire car | Insurance courtesy car |
| No cost to you, as long as you follow the credit hire agreement terms. | You'll usually need to pay your compulsory and voluntary excess upfront. |
| Repairs carried out by approved manufacturers using new parts. | Repairs may use non-approved garages or second-hand parts. |
| Like-for-like replacement car. | A non-like-for-like car may be provided, which may differ in size and features. |
| A car will be provided for the full duration your car is off the road. | Availability may be limited, with potential delays, leaving you without a car. |
| A dedicated claims handler throughout. | Communications can be slower and less personalised. |
Why choose National Accident Helpline to help with a credit hire claim?
- We have over years_since years of experience helping people involved in accidents.
- Our accident management partners are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
- From your first call through to resolution, we'll be there to support you.
Thousands of people have rated us ‘Excellent' on Trustpilot.
What our clients say
Credit Hire FAQs
How long will I have a credit hire car after an accident?
How long will I have a credit hire car after an accident?
In most cases, you can use a credit hire car for the duration yours is off the road being repaired or whilst your claim is being settled.
Can I get a credit hire car if my car is written off?
Can I get a credit hire car if my car is written off?
Yes, you can still get a credit hire car if yours is written off, providing the car accident was not your fault.
What does 'like-for-like replacement' mean?
What does 'like-for-like replacement' mean?
A like-for-like replacement car after an accident means the car you'll receive will match your vehicle's specifications as closely as possible, helping you maintain your usual day-to-day routine.
What happens if the at-fault insurer refuses to pay?
What happens if the at-fault insurer refuses to pay?
In rare cases where the at-fault insurer refuses to pay, your legal team will gather the evidence needed to challenge the decision. Rest assured, if you are honest throughout your claim, you will never face unexpected charges.
If you're unsure about your eligibility for a non-fault accident hire car, contact our Helpline Advisors on 0800 376 0150 and they'll be able to give you guidance on your situation.
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Visit our general FAQs page for more information.
Useful no fault claims related guides
Road accident advice
What to do after an accident
The claims process
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