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 while 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.
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 or start your claim online. Tell us details of your road traffic accident and we can let you know if you're eligible to make a no win, no fee car accident claim.
Step two: Your claim, handled
If you'd like to proceed, we'll connect you to a specialist solicitor firm, who will manage your car accident claim and guide you through the legal process, helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Step three: Get back on the road
Meanwhile, a trusted accident management company will arrange a like-for-like credit hire car whilst your vehicle is repaired using approved manufacturer parts.
Will having a credit hire car affect my no-claims bonus?
No, a credit hire claim 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.
Who pays for credit hire car?
The at-fault party's insurer will usually recover the costs of a credit hire claim. A car accident management company that provides the car after the road traffic accident, will recovers the costs directly from them, so you don't have to worry about chasing this yourself.
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. That means you avoid paying an excess, protects your no claims bonus and reduces the risk of higher premiums. 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 like-for-like. It also requires you to claim on your policy, which could mean paying an excess and may impact your no claims bonus and future premiums.
| Credit hire car | Insurance courtesy car |
| Pay no excess if the accident wasn't your fault. | You'll usually need to pay your compulsory and voluntary excess upfront. |
| Your no claims bonus stays protected. | Your no claims bonus may be affected, even if you weren't at fault. |
| Your insurance premium isn't impacted. | Your premium could increase following a claim. |
| 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 standard car is provided, which may not suit your need. |
| 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 like you.
- We only work with trusted, regulated law firms registered with the Law Society or the Law Society of Scotland.
- 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?
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?
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?
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?
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 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.