If the crash wasn't your fault, you shouldn't be left without a car. Here's what you're entitled to, and the difference between a courtesy car and a like-for-like hire.
Being without your car after someone else's mistake is more than an inconvenience — it affects work, family and daily life. The good news: after a non-fault accident, you're entitled to stay mobile at no cost to you.
Courtesy car vs like-for-like
A courtesy car from your own insurer is often a small, basic model — and only provided while your car is being repaired. After a non-fault accident you're entitled to a like-for-like replacement: a vehicle of a comparable size and type to your own.
Who pays for it?
The cost is recovered from the at-fault driver's insurer, so there's nothing for you to pay. This is one of the uninsured losses an accident management company recovers on your behalf.
How long can I keep it?
Until your own vehicle is repaired, or — if it's written off — until you've received a settlement and had a fair chance to replace it. You should keep mileage reasonable and only use it as you would your own car.
Get back on the road today
We can often arrange a replacement vehicle within hours of taking your claim. Call our 24/7 line to get moving.
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About this guide. Written and reviewed by Swift Assist's claims specialists, who handle non-fault motor accident claims for UK drivers every day. Figures are taken from official UK sources and checked on publication. It is general information, not legal or financial advice. See our sourced UK statistics.