When your car is damaged in an accident or sent for repairs, a courtesy car can be a huge relief. It helps you stay mobile while your vehicle is off the road. Yet, many UK drivers still have mixed opinions about what they’re actually entitled to, how courtesy cars work, and who provides them.
In this guide, we’ll separate courtesy car myths from facts so you can fully understand your rights, coverage options, and what really happens when you’re offered a replacement vehicle after an accident.
Myth 1: You Always Get a Courtesy Car After an Accident
One of the most common misconceptions about courtesy cars is that every driver automatically gets one after an accident. In reality, it depends on your situation and insurance policy.
If the accident was your fault, you may not always be entitled to a courtesy car unless your policy specifically includes one. For non-fault accidents, you can often get a replacement car through your accident management company or the other driver’s insurer.
Truth: Not every policy guarantees a courtesy car. Always check the “courtesy car entitlement” section in your insurance policy documents to understand your actual coverage.
Myth 2: A Courtesy Car Is the Same as a Replacement Car
Many people use the terms courtesy car and replacement car interchangeably, but they’re not the same.
A courtesy car is usually a small, basic vehicle temporarily provided by your repair garage or insurer while your car is being repaired. It’s a goodwill gesture, often with limited availability.
A replacement car, on the other hand, is typically arranged through an accident management company after a non-fault accident. These are usually like-for-like vehicles meaning you’ll get a similar make and model to your own.
Truth: Courtesy cars are often smaller and more basic, while replacement cars are designed to closely match your original vehicle.
Myth 3: Courtesy Cars Are Always Free
While many assume courtesy cars come at no extra cost, this isn’t always the case. Some courtesy car insurance policies in the UK include them as part of the premium, but others may require an add-on or optional cover.
If your garage provides a courtesy car directly, it might be free, but you could still need to cover fuel, insurance excess, or mileage limits.
Truth: A courtesy car isn’t always free, it depends on your insurance policy or repair agreement. Always confirm costs before signing anything.
Myth 4: You’ll Get a Courtesy Car for as Long as You Need It
Many drivers believe they can keep their courtesy car until their own vehicle is completely fixed or replaced, no matter how long it takes. However, most insurance policies limit the duration, often 14 to 21 days.
If your repairs take longer than expected, you might have to return the courtesy car or request an extension (which isn’t always approved).
Truth: Courtesy car duration depends on your insurer or garage. If you expect long repair times, consider a replacement car hire through an accident management company.
Myth 5: All Courtesy Cars Are New or High-Spec Models
Another popular courtesy car myth is that the vehicle you receive will be brand new or similar in quality to your own. In most cases, courtesy cars are standard models, often small hatchbacks used primarily for convenience.
Premium or like-for-like vehicles are typically reserved for replacement car schemes after non-fault accidents.
Truth: Courtesy cars are usually basic models meant to keep you mobile, not necessarily luxurious or identical to your own.
Myth 6: If No Courtesy Car Is Available, You’re Out of Options
It’s frustrating when your repair garage says there are no courtesy cars available. However, that doesn’t mean you have to be without transport.
If the accident wasn’t your fault, contact an accident management company. They can usually arrange a like-for-like replacement car and handle the claim directly with the at-fault party’s insurer.
Truth: You’re not stuck without a car. Explore temporary car hire options or speak to your insurer about approved alternatives.
Myth 7: Courtesy Cars Are Automatically Covered by Insurance
A lot of drivers assume that their courtesy car is automatically insured under their existing policy. This isn’t always the case.
Some insurers provide third-party cover only, meaning you’re not protected for damage to the courtesy car itself. Others might extend full comprehensive coverage, but only if clearly stated.
Truth: Always verify what level of insurance applies to your courtesy car before driving it. It could save you from unexpected costs if an accident happens.
Myth 8: You Can Use the Courtesy Car However You Like
Just because you’re given a courtesy car doesn’t mean there are no restrictions. Most providers have clear terms and conditions outlining usage limits such as mileage caps, age restrictions for additional drivers, and no use for business or commercial purposes.
Violating these rules could make you liable for damages or extra charges.
Truth: Always read the courtesy car terms and conditions to avoid penalties or voided coverage.
Myth 9: Courtesy Cars Are Only for Non-Fault Accidents
Some drivers believe you can only get a courtesy car after a non-fault accident, but that’s not entirely true.
If your insurance policy includes courtesy car cover, you can still receive one even if the accident was your fault depending on your provider’s terms. The difference is that in fault cases, the cost may not be recoverable from another insurer.
Truth: Courtesy cars are available for both fault and non-fault claims, depending on your policy and garage availability.
Myth 10: You Don’t Need to Check the Courtesy Car Before Driving
Even though it’s a temporary vehicle, it’s important to inspect the courtesy car before you drive off. Look for scratches, dents, or damage and make sure they’re documented.
Failing to do so could result in you being blamed for pre-existing issues.
Truth: Always perform a quick walkaround check and confirm the condition report before leaving the premises.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the truth about courtesy cars can save you time, stress, and unexpected costs after an accident. While these vehicles are a convenient solution during repairs, the rules around courtesy car eligibility, insurance, and duration can vary widely.
Always review your courtesy car insurance policy, ask your repair garage or insurer about availability, and know your rights under UK courtesy car entitlement rules.
By knowing the facts and ignoring the myths, you can make smarter decisions and stay on the road with confidence after any mishap.
Comments (0)