Question 1

Do I have to pay upfront for the replacement vehicle?

Accepted Answer

For eligible not-at-fault claims, there is no upfront hire cost. 888 Car Hire provides the replacement vehicle and then seeks recovery of the reasonable hire charges from the at-fault party or their insurer — not from you. You remain responsible for normal running costs during the hire, such as fuel, tolls and parking, along with anything set out in your rental agreement. Our team will explain exactly what applies to your situation before you take the vehicle.

Question 2

Who pays for the replacement vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Where the claim is eligible, 888 Car Hire seeks recovery of the hire costs from the responsible party or their insurer. If the claim is accepted, you should not be out of pocket for the hire cost itself. Our team manages the recovery process on your behalf.

Question 3

How quickly can I get a replacement vehicle?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your location, the circumstances of the claim and vehicle availability. In most cases across Melbourne metro, we aim to arrange delivery the same day you contact us. We're based in Maidstone and cover suburbs from Footscray and Sunshine through to Frankston, Dandenong, and the northern and eastern suburbs.

Question 4

Do I have to deal with the other driver's insurer myself?

Accepted Answer

No. 888 Car Hire assists with the replacement vehicle paperwork and manages correspondence with the at-fault party's insurer on your behalf. This reduces the administration you need to manage yourself. Where a dispute arises, we work to resolve it directly — this does not affect your ability to use the vehicle in the interim, subject to the terms of your agreement.

Question 5

What information do you need to get started?

Accepted Answer

As much as you have. Useful details include the other driver's name, vehicle registration and insurer. A claim reference number is helpful but not required to get started. Basic details about the accident, your vehicle, the other driver and your contact details are typically what we need initially. Our team will guide you through what's needed.

Question 6

Can I get a vehicle similar to mine?

Accepted Answer

We aim to provide a comparable replacement — similar in size and type to your own vehicle. Tell us what you normally drive and what you need the vehicle for, and we'll work with you to organise an appropriate replacement where reasonable and available. The specific vehicle is subject to eligibility, availability, and the terms of your rental agreement.

Question 7

What if my car has been written off?

Accepted Answer

You may still be eligible for a replacement vehicle for a reasonable period even after a total loss declaration. The replacement hire entitlement generally runs through the settlement process — not just until the write-off is declared. Our team can assess your situation and advise on what may apply to you.

Question 8

What if I'm not sure who was at fault?

Accepted Answer

Send us the accident details. Our team can review the circumstances and advise whether we may be able to assist. Generally, you are not at fault if another driver caused the accident — for example, if you were rear-ended, hit at an intersection, or struck while parked. If liability is unclear or disputed, we'll assess the situation with you.

Question 9

What if I don't have a claim number yet?

Accepted Answer

That's fine. A claim number isn't needed to get started. Many customers contact us before a claim has been lodged. Our team can help you understand the process and we'll collect the necessary details as they become available.

Question 10

Can you deliver to my home, workplace or repairer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We deliver across Melbourne metro. Tell us where you need the vehicle and we'll make the arrangements. Car already at a repairer? We can deliver the replacement there.

Question 11

How long can I keep the replacement vehicle?

Accepted Answer

For the duration of your repair or until your vehicle is assessed, subject to the terms of your rental agreement and the progress of the claim. If your repairer experiences delays, contact us and we can discuss extending the hire.

Question 12

Do I need my own insurance to qualify?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. The claim is directed at the at-fault driver or their insurer, not your own policy. However, your own insurance details can be helpful in the process. Our team will talk you through what's needed for your specific situation.

Question 13

What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?

Accepted Answer

This can affect the claim, but there may still be options depending on the circumstances. Call us on 0423 022 881 and we'll discuss what's available.

Question 14

What costs am I still responsible for?

Accepted Answer

During the hire, you are responsible for fuel, tolls, parking fines, and anything set out in your rental agreement. The hire cost itself — where eligible — is sought from the at-fault party. We'll make sure you understand exactly what applies before you take the vehicle.

Not Your Fault?
Get Back On The Road With $0 Upfront Hire Cost.

What We Handle For You

Check your eligibility

Was another vehicle involved in the accident?

Four steps. We do the heavy lifting.

Are You Likely to Qualify?

What Vehicle Would You Receive?

MG3

Toyota Camry

Chery Tiggo 7 Pro

Toyota HiAce

Why Melbourne Drivers Choose 888

Drivers We've Helped Get Back On The Road

Common questions about accident replacement vehicles

You've Already Had The Accident.
Let Us Handle What Comes Next.

Which situation applies to you?

Understand your rights as a not-at-fault driver

Not Your Fault?Get Back On The Road With $0 Upfront Hire Cost.