How do I get a like-for-like replacement vehicle after a non-fault accident in London & England?
If you've had a non-fault accident in London or across England, we coordinate a like-for-like replacement vehicle for you, whether you drive a car, taxi, van, or bike. The vehicle is typically delivered directly to you within 24 hours with no upfront cost, as our fee is settled by the at-fault insurer after the process is complete. To get started and back on the road quickly, simply call our 24/7 hotline or send a message on WhatsApp.
Q: How fast can I get a replacement vehicle?
A: We aim to deliver a like-for-like replacement vehicle to you within 24 hours of confirming your non-fault accident details.
Q: Do I pay upfront for the hire vehicle?
A: No, there is no upfront cost for the service; our pre-agreed fee is deducted only after the at-fault insurer provides a settlement.
Q: Is the replacement vehicle work-ready and compliant?
A: Yes, we provide like-for-like vehicles, including TfL-plated taxis for private hire, ULEZ-compliant vans, and fully insured motorbikes to keep you on the road.
Your Car, Your Choice: The Official Guide to Non-Fault Accident Repairs
The accident wasn't your fault, yet suddenly you feel like you've lost all control. A stranger from an insurance company is on the phone, telling you where your car must be taken and repaired. It feels deeply unfair, adding a layer of stress you simply don't need.
But what if the control was yours all along? The key to a stress-free, high-quality repair is understanding one simple but powerful right that every UK driver has. It's the right to choose who fixes your car.
A common question is, "Do I have to use my insurer's approved repairer after a non-fault accident?" The answer is no. With vehicle repair costs rising by 32% in just one year, as reported by the Association of British Insurers, ensuring a quality non-fault accident repair has never been more critical for your vehicle's safety and value.
Direct Answer: A non-fault accident repair is a vehicle repair paid for by the at-fault party's insurer. As the owner, you have the legal right to choose your own garage for the repair and are not required to use your insurer's approved network. The key is providing a reasonable, detailed quote to the at-fault insurer for approval.
Table of Contents
Your Legal Right to Choose a Repairer: The Law vs. The Policy
After a crash, it's easy to assume you must follow the insurer's lead. However, it's vital to understand the difference between your legal rights and the terms of an insurance policy.
What the Law Says About Your Property
Think of it this way: if a neighbour accidentally smashed your living room window, you wouldn't let them force you to use their cheap mate to fix it. You would hire a professional glazier you trust and send the bill to your neighbour.
Your car is no different. It is your property. Under UK consumer law, if your property is damaged by a third party, you are entitled to have it repaired to its pre-accident condition at a garage of your choosing.
How Insurance Policies Create Confusion
Insurance companies often encourage you to use their "approved" repairer network. They might say that only by using their network will they "guarantee" the repairs or provide a courtesy car. This can feel like pressure, but it doesn't take away your fundamental right. Their offer is a term of their service, not a legal obligation you must accept.
The Official Stance: What Regulators Say
Authoritative bodies like the Financial Ombudsman Service have consistently upheld a consumer's right to choose their own repairer, as long as the chosen garage's costs are not significantly higher than the insurer's approved option.
Insurer "Approved" Garages vs. a Specialist You Trust
So, if you have the choice, what's the difference? It comes down to one thing: whose interests are being prioritised?
Why Do Insurers Have Approved Networks?
Insurers operate like a supermarket buying in bulk. They promise a huge volume of work to a network of garages in exchange for cheaper labour rates and the use of cheaper, non-original parts. This is a business model designed to control their costs, which doesn't always align with your goal: getting the best possible non-fault accident repair.
| Feature | Insurer's "Approved" Garage | Your Chosen Specialist Garage |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Minimise cost for the insurer. | Maximise repair quality for you. |
| Parts Used | Often use non-original (aftermarket) parts. | Typically use genuine manufacturer parts. |
| Expertise | Generalists handling high volumes. | Specialists in your vehicle's make/model. |
| Warranty | May not protect your vehicle's warranty. | Protects manufacturer & anti-corrosion warranties. |
| Value | Can potentially reduce your vehicle's resale value. | Maintains your vehicle's safety and resale value. |
How to Manage the Non-Fault Accident Repair Process Without the Headache
Knowing your rights is the first step. Exercising them without causing yourself a mountain of stress is the next.
Step 1: Notify Your Insurer of Your Decision
When you report the accident, calmly and firmly state that you will be arranging the non-fault accident repair at a garage of your choice. You can say something like, "Thank you for the information on your approved network. However, I will be using my preferred manufacturer-approved garage and will provide you with their estimate for your approval."
Step 2: Arranging an Independent Assessment and Quote
Your chosen specialist garage will assess the damage and prepare a detailed, evidence-based quote. This should specify the use of genuine parts and approved repair methods. This professional estimate is what will be sent to the at-fault driver's insurance company.
Step 3: Getting Repairs Authorised and Managed
This is where the real hassle can begin. You might have to chase the other insurer for authorisation, negotiate costs, and coordinate everything yourself. It’s like being forced to project manage a building site with no experience.
This is where a service that coordinates non-fault accident repairs can be invaluable. Instead of you making endless calls, a coordinator acts as your expert project manager. They handle the communication between your chosen garage and the at-fault insurer to get repairs approved swiftly, often without you needing to pay a penny upfront.
Service Note & Mandatory Disclaimer
Accident Assist Network assists you after a non-fault accident by co-ordinating vehicle recovery, reputable repairs, cash-in-lieu settlements for total-loss vehicles and like-for-like replacement hire—whether for personal use, licensed taxi work or bike—through our network of independent specialist companies across England. Because our role is one of practical facilitation rather than financial advice, we are not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority, and our services are not covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. If the at-fault insurer delays or disputes payment you may become liable for credit services or other charges set out in your contract. Please read every document thoroughly and, if anything is unclear, ask us—or an independent adviser—before signing. We are happy to guide you in the language you feel most comfortable with.”
Need practical help in England?
Specialist Repairs: What If Your Vehicle is Your Livelihood?
For some drivers, a vehicle isn't just a way to get around—it's their office and their source of income. In these cases, a generic repair simply isn't good enough.
For London Taxi & PCO Drivers
Your vehicle is your livelihood. For London Taxi & PCO Drivers, using a specialist repairer is non-negotiable. They understand the strict TfL inspection criteria and ensure your vehicle is repaired to a standard that will pass, protecting your licence and your income.
For Van & Courier Drivers
A delivery van is a tool of your trade. A non-fault accident repair must be robust and reliable. Whether it's a refrigerated unit or specialist racking, a generic garage may not have the expertise, leading to further problems down the line.
For Prestige & Electric Vehicles (EVs)
The advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), complex battery technology, and unique materials used in EVs and prestige cars demand specialist knowledge. A main dealer or manufacturer-approved bodyshop is essential to recalibrate sensors correctly and protect the vehicle's intricate systems.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Vehicle's Future
Being in a non-fault accident can leave you feeling powerless. But knowing that the final decision about your vehicle's repair rests with you is the first step to taking back control. It ensures your property is respected and its value is protected.
By choosing your own specialist, you prioritise quality, safety, and peace of mind. If managing that process seems daunting, a trustworthy friend can handle the logistics for you. If you have more questions, you can read more in our frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can my insurer refuse to pay if I use my own garage for a non-fault repair?
According to Citizens Advice, your insurer cannot simply refuse to pay. However, they are only liable for "reasonable" costs. As long as your chosen garage's quote is in line with the market rate, the at-fault insurer is obliged to cover it.
2. Will choosing my own repairer delay the process?
Not necessarily. In fact, it can sometimes be faster. A specialist garage may be able to source parts more quickly or have better availability than an insurer's overloaded network. An accident management service can also speed things up by proactively managing communications.
3. Who provides a courtesy car if I don't use the insurer's approved garage?
While the insurer's offer of a courtesy car is often tied to their network, you are still entitled to a replacement vehicle after a non-fault accident. The key is getting a like-for-like replacement vehicle organised on a credit hire basis, where the costs are recovered directly from the at-fault insurer.
4. How do I know if the costs from my chosen garage are 'reasonable'?
A reputable, manufacturer-approved garage will use standard pricing models for parts and labour. Providing a detailed, itemised estimate is the best way to demonstrate that the costs are reasonable and fair.
5. Will a non-fault accident repair affect my no-claims bonus?
No. A claim that is settled entirely by the at-fault driver's insurance should not affect your no-claims bonus. However, you must still declare the accident to your insurer, which may affect your premium at renewal time. You can find more details on the GOV.UK website.
