If you’ve been in a car accident in London and the accident wasn’t your fault, you may have heard about credit hire cars. For many drivers, it sounds confusing at first. Who pays for the car? Is it really free? And what’s the catch? The truth is, credit hire can be helpful, but only if you understand how it works.
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What Is a Credit Hire Car?
A credit hire car is a temporary replacement vehicle provided after a non-fault accident. Instead of paying upfront, the cost of the hire is recovered later from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. That’s why it’s called “credit” hire — the hire company covers the cost initially.
This service is common in London, especially because traffic is heavy and accidents happen often. Many drivers need a car quickly to get to work, school, or appointments, and waiting weeks for insurance approval isn’t practical.
When Can You Use Credit Hire?
Credit hire is usually available if:
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The accident was not your fault
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The other driver’s insurance details are known
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Your own car is damaged or unsafe to drive
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You genuinely need a replacement vehicle
Hire companies will normally ask questions about your job, daily travel, and why you need a car. This isn’t to be difficult — it’s to confirm that the hire is justified.
How the Process Starts
After an accident, you might be contacted by a claims management company, solicitor, or credit hire provider. Sometimes your insurer or repair garage can also refer you.
Once approved, the hire company delivers a replacement car, often within 24 hours. In London, same-day delivery is quite common due to demand. The car you receive is usually similar to your own vehicle, not a luxury upgrade.
Who Pays for the Hire?
This is the part people worry about most. The hire cost is claimed back from the at-fault driver’s insurer once the case is settled. You don’t usually pay upfront, but you may need to sign an agreement confirming you’ll cooperate with the claim.
In rare cases, if the claim fails or information was incorrect, the hire company could ask you to cover costs. That’s why it’s important to be honest and read the paperwork carefully.
How Long Can You Keep the Car?
The hire period normally lasts until your car is repaired or written off and a settlement is offered. In London, repairs can take longer due to busy garages, so hire periods can be extended if needed.
However, hire companies expect you to return the vehicle as soon as it’s no longer required. Keeping it longer than necessary can cause disputes later.
Things to Be Careful About
Credit hire can be very useful, but there are a few things to watch out for:
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Make sure the accident was clearly not your fault
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Only hire a car you genuinely need
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Return the vehicle promptly once repairs are done
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Keep all communication clear and documented
Some insurers challenge high hire costs, especially in London where rates can be higher. Following advice from the hire company helps avoid issues.
Is Credit Hire Worth It?
For many London drivers, yes. It allows you to stay mobile without paying upfront and reduces stress after an accident. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you don’t really need a car, or if fault is unclear, it might not be the best option.
Final Thoughts
Credit hire cars exist to keep you moving when an accident disrupts your routine. In a busy city like London, that can make a big difference. As long as you understand the process and your responsibilities, credit hire can be a practical and helpful solution.
