If you’re involved in a car accident where you’re not at fault, the ‘Right to Drive‘ rules in Perth ensure that you’re eligible to receive a replacement vehicle while your own car is being repaired or until the insurance claim is resolved. This guide will walk you through the process, making it easier for you to secure a replacement vehicle with minimal fuss.
1. Ensure You Are Not at Fault
The ‘Right to Drive’ rules in Perth only apply to non-fault drivers, meaning the accident must have been caused by someone else. To confirm this:
- Get a police report: If the police attend the accident scene, they will usually create a report detailing the incident. This report can serve as an official document to confirm that you were not responsible.
- Obtain witness statements: If there are any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact details and statements. Their input could be crucial in proving you were not at fault.
- Photographic evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to your vehicle and the other party’s vehicle, skid marks, road signs, and traffic conditions. This evidence can help support your claim.
- Insurance acknowledgement: If your insurance provider or the at-fault party’s insurer confirms that you were not responsible for the accident, you will be eligible for a replacement vehicle under the ‘Right to Drive Perth’ rules.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
After confirming that you are not at fault, the next step is to notify your insurance company. It is crucial to do this as soon as possible after the accident. When contacting them:
- Provide accurate details: Be prepared to explain the circumstances of the accident, including time, location, and how the accident occurred.
- Confirm your eligibility: Ask your insurance company if your policy covers accident replacement vehicles. While the ‘Right to Drive’ rules apply to non-fault drivers, your specific policy may have additional terms.
- Discuss repairs and claims: The insurer will help arrange repairs for your vehicle and advise you on filing your insurance claim, which is necessary to begin the replacement vehicle process.
- Liability confirmation: Sometimes, it may take a little time for the insurance companies to determine who was at fault. Once the liability is confirmed, the process for getting a replacement vehicle can proceed.
3. Gather Necessary Information
To make the replacement vehicle process as smooth as possible, ensure you have the following information on hand:
- The other driver’s details: This includes their name, contact number, insurance provider, and policy number. This information will help in processing the claim.
- Accident documentation: Ensure you have copies of the police report, photographs of the accident, and witness statements. These documents will help the insurance provider and the replacement vehicle company verify the accident details.
- Your own vehicle details: Provide information about your car, such as the make, model, registration number, and any damage sustained in the accident. This will help the replacement vehicle company match you with a suitable vehicle.
4. Choose a Replacement Vehicle Provider
Once you’ve been confirmed as not at fault, the next step is choosing a provider for your replacement vehicle. There are a few things to consider:
- Choose a trusted provider: Easy Rent A Car is a leading service in Perth that specialises in accident replacement vehicles under the ‘Right to Drive’ concept. They have extensive experience in ensuring non-fault drivers are back on the road quickly.
- Check the vehicle type: According to the ‘Right to Drive Perth’ rules, the replacement vehicle should be of a similar type to your original car. For example, if you drive an SUV, your replacement vehicle should be comparable in size and utility.
- Verify the terms: It’s important to fully understand the terms of the agreement with the replacement vehicle provider. Make sure you are clear on the rental period and any responsibilities you may have while using the car.
5. Book Your Replacement Vehicle
Once you have selected a provider, you can proceed with booking your replacement vehicle. Most providers, including Easy Rent A Car, offer a simple booking process:
- Provide necessary details: You’ll need to provide the accident details, including the accident report, insurance information, and confirmation that you were not at fault.
- Arrange delivery or pick-up: Depending on the provider, you can either pick up the vehicle from their location or arrange for it to be delivered to your home, workplace, or repair shop.
- Quick turnaround time: In many cases, providers like Easy Rent A Car offer fast service, ensuring that you have a replacement vehicle within 24 hours of confirming eligibility. This helps minimise any disruption to your day-to-day activities.
6. Sign the Agreement and Receive the Vehicle
Before receiving the replacement vehicle, you will need to sign an agreement that outlines the terms of use. It is important to review this document carefully:
- Understand the terms: Ensure that you are fully aware of your responsibilities, such as maintaining the vehicle and any mileage or usage limits.
- No upfront costs: In most cases, you won’t need to pay for the replacement vehicle if the other driver is at fault and their insurance covers the costs. Confirm with the provider and your insurer that there are no hidden fees or additional costs.
- Delivery or pick-up: Once the agreement is signed, you will be able to collect the vehicle or have it delivered to you. Ensure the vehicle is in good working condition and matches your expectations.
7. Use the Replacement Vehicle Until Your Own Car Is Repaired
Once you have the replacement vehicle, you can use it while your car is being repaired or until the insurance claim is resolved:
- Keep in contact with the provider: Regularly check in with the vehicle replacement provider to stay informed about the timeline for your own car’s repair. If there are delays, ensure that you can continue using the replacement vehicle without additional fees.
- Proper usage: While you have the replacement vehicle, it’s important to use it responsibly. Follow the terms of your agreement, and avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
- Timely updates: Keep your insurance company updated on the progress of your car repairs and any delays, so that they can coordinate with the replacement vehicle provider.
8. Return the Replacement Vehicle
Once your car is repaired or you’ve reached a settlement with the at-fault party, it’s time to return the replacement vehicle:
- Coordinate the return: Contact the provider and arrange a convenient time for returning the vehicle. Some providers offer pick-up services, while others may require you to return the car to their location.
- Check the vehicle: Ensure that the replacement vehicle is in the same condition as when you received it, as any damage may result in additional fees.
- Complete the paperwork: Finalise any remaining documentation with the provider to officially close the agreement.
Final Thoughts
The ‘Right to Drive Perth’ rules are designed to ensure that drivers who are not at fault in an accident aren’t left without transportation. By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process smoothly and get back on the road quickly. Easy Rent A Car is a reliable partner in Perth for securing an accident replacement vehicle, ensuring you can continue your routine without significant disruption.
For more information on how to claim a replacement vehicle after an accident, visit www.easyrentacarperth.com.au or call 0415 254 724.
