What to do After a Non-Fault Accident in a Courtesy Car in London

Accidents happen, we all know that, that's why there are provisions in place to help you get back on the road (figuratively and literally) as quickly as possible – but what happens when you have a non-fault accident in a courtesy car?

Being involved in an accident in your own car is one thing, but when it's not your vehicle that has been damaged then the situation can become more stressful. Here you'll find all the information you need about making a claim.

What happens if you have an accident in a rental car?

If you have a non-fault accident in a courtesy car, there are several steps that you need to take:

• As with any road traffic collision, you must make sure that everyone involved is safe and not seriously injured. If there are injuries, call 999 and request an ambulance. You should also ask for police presence, as they can make an accurate recording of the scene.
• Next, you should gather as much evidence and relevant information as possible. That means taking photographs of the scene and damage to the courtesy car, speaking to witnesses, and getting the contact details of everyone involved.
• Finding out what your rental company's procedures are in these circumstances is key. Give them a call ASAP, explain what has happened, and ask them how they would like to proceed. It may be that they collect the car, or that you will have to drive it (if possible) to a location of their choice. Make a note of the time of the call, and the name of whoever you speak to.
• Your rental company will more than likely ask you to file a report explaining exactly what happened, and you should strive to be as cooperative as possible when dealing with them.
• You'll have to inform your insurers of the incident, but we'd recommend speaking to the Winns team first. If you contact Winns before your insurer, we can arrange medical treatment, and a like-for-like hire car after an accident.

Not all hire vehicles are courtesy cars however, and if you have had an accident that wasn't your fault while driving a hire van (perhaps while moving house), then you should follow the same steps. The hire company will have actions in place to cover this eventuality, so you shouldn't be afraid to reach out to them immediately.

Whatever the specifics of the situation, speaking to Winns will help you to make a personal injury claim with all of the information and help that you need.

What our clients say

At Winns, we take huge pride in our record of helping people; not just in a non-fault accident in a courtesy car, but with a whole range of personal injury claims.

Our attention to the needs of our clients, and our willingness to go the extra mile, has given us an ‘Excellent’ rating on the consumer review site TrustPilot, and you can read some of our recent comments from clients below:

Nothing is ever too much trouble for them, no matter how big or small it may be. Always had time to speak to me and talk things over with me. Always had time to answer question which I have, I could always email as well which is a big help! Everyone who I’ve spoken to is always friendly and willing to help.

Sophie Parker

After a traumatic experience, Lisa was excellent and displayed a great deal of empathy in regards to handling my case. All services provided beat my expectations and I will be recommending Winn solicitors whenever the need arises.

Thank you Lisa for everything you have done so far it has made me feel so much at ease having such trust in you and the company.

Jacob

Very helpful and friendly when calling. Always explain things well so I fully understand the process and knowing what to do next. Great service

Tracy Jaques

If you have had a non-fault accident in a courtesy car and need to make a claim, get in touch with the team at Winns today.

What compensation can I claim for?

If you have had an accident in a courtesy car, then the type of compensation that you can claim for is the same as any other personal injury on the road.

As part of a settlement agreement, the severity of injuries, time taken off work, and any change to quality of life would be taken into account when arriving at a compensation amount. As far as the courtesy car goes, your insurance should provide the same level of cover as it does on your personal vehicle. That means you will only have to pay the excess to have it repaired, a cost that we can also seek to recover as part of your settlement.

If you do not receive a replacement like-for-like vehicle, then be sure to keep receipts for any travel expenses, as these can also be taken into account as part of your claim.

Absolutely first class response and service from Winns. I couldn’t believe how fast they were in attending to every detail regarding my motor vehicle claim. Would definitely recommend them.

John Cahillane

This is the first car accident I’ve had since passing my test year ago and Kelly, who I spoke to, made me feel at ease and went through everything, cannot thank her enough.

Miss. C. Wozencroft

If you've had a non-fault accident in a courtesy car and don't know where to turn, speak to Winns on the phone or through Live Chat today. Our team will talk you through the process of making a claim and get you the help you need.

Why choose Winns to make a claim after a non-fault accident in a courtesy car?

At Winns, we do our best for you following a non-fault accident in a courtesy car. After you've made initial contact, our case handlers will provide you with the guidance and information that you need throughout your claim right up until your settlement is reached.

That's not all though, as we also ensure that you get the relevant care and medical treatment you need, such as physiotherapy. And you won't have to make do with any old vehicle, because our network of vehicle providers means that you will be given a like-for-like hire car after an accident, to drive until repairs have been carried out.

Non-fault accident in a courtesy car - FAQs

What happens if rental car is damaged?

If a rental car is damaged then you should inform the provider immediately. Your insurance cover should be the same as it is on your personal vehicle, so you will only have to pay the excess. The rental company will provide you with another vehicle if possible.

Is the process any different following an accident in a hire van?

No, the same rules apply as if you have an accident in a rental car. Inform the hire company and, after speaking to Winns, contact your insurer. Your excess will be used to repair the van, with the amount paid recouped as part of your claim.

What costs are involved for a rental car accident?

The costs that you will be able to claim for following a non-fault accident in a courtesy car include the amount payable to recover and repair the car, as well as expenses which arise from your lack of vehicle, such as public transport costs. If you have been injured and require time off work, or adjustments to your living situation, then this will be taken into account when a settlement is calculated.

How long does a courtesy car accident settlement take?

The amount of time it takes to resolve a claim for a crash in a courtesy car depends on the complexity of the case and its after effects. That being said, car accident claims are generally processed faster than most other types of legal action, as they are dealt with via the Claims Portal, a tool used by the UK Government to help settle cases as quickly as possible. In most instances, settlements are reached within four to nine months, but the team at Winns will keep you informed every step of the way.

What if I've had an accident in a hire car abroad?

If you have had an accident abroad while driving a hire car, then you must inform the local police immediately, as well as your hire company. Do not accept liability, and be sure to speak to the hire company before seeking repairs. You can find further advice on the steps that you should take from Citizens Advice, here.

This is the first time in a long while I have had to deal with making a claim, for motor insurance. I cannot believe how much time and effort that Winn Solicitors have taken out of my busy days. All within my first call on Saturday, I spoke with a very courteous and knowledgeable lady by the name of Kelly Fraser, and I have also emailed many times with bits of queries and nothing is to much trouble or gone unanswered. [Kelly] is a credit to the company, because by the time you've answered all her simple to understand questions, you can relax and feel relaxed, because you know you're in capable hands. No more form filling, its all done by a simple phone call. Thank you for your full support and commitment in getting my insurance needs sorted in the quickest possible way.

David B

To start your claim for a non-fault accident in a courtesy car, contact Winns today. We'll get you back on the road with the peace of mind you need and a like-for-like hire car after an accident.