What to do if Your Hired PCO Car is Damaged in an Accident
Car accidents can happen anywhere and at any time. The PCO drivers are more at risk as they spend more time on the roads. If your PCO hired car is damaged in an accident, it is important to understand how to handle the situation to legally and financially protect yourself.
While most PCO car hire contracts include insurance protection against damage, you still have some responsibilities in case of an accident. In this article, we will discuss the necessary steps you should take after an accident to avoid any complications.
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Article Highlights
Damaged your car in an accident? Here’s what you should do:
- Stay calm and prioritise safety
- Report the accident immediately
- Gather all the necessary details
- Understand the insurance cover, and more.
Stay Calm and Prioritise Safety
The first and most important step is to stay calm and prioritise the safety of everyone involved in the accident. You can think better and act safely if you are calm and composed.
- Check for injuries and make sure you, the passengers and everyone involved in the accident are okay. Call 999 promptly if anyone is injured and needs medical attention.
- If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road so it does not obstruct traffic. Turn your hazard lights on to alert the other drivers.
- Wait for help to arrive. Do not stand or walk in the middle of the road. Stay behind the barriers or on the side pavement if possible.
- It’s normal to panic or be shocked after an accident. Try to calm yourself down by taking slow and deep breaths. Stay focused and polite, and avoid blaming or arguing.
Report the Accident Immediately
After confirming that everyone is safe, report the accident to local authorities. You can call the emergency police line at 999 if they are not already at the scene.
You have to report the accident to TFL as well. Every private hire driver in London is required by law to report any accident resulting in car damage to the TfL.
Lastly, inform your car provider. They will take care of everything from towing the vehicle to providing a replacement car for you to keep on driving. They will also coordinate with the insurance provider for any repairs.
It could lead to penalties if you do not report the accident to relevant authorities within 24 hours.
Gather all the Necessary Details
Collect the details of other drivers involved, including any witnesses. Ask for their names, addresses, contact numbers, insurance company, and policy numbers. Note the accident details, like the date, time, exact location, weather and road conditions, etc.
You can take photos of the damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and signals or make a small video of the incident. This step will help you deal with any disputes later. Plus, your insurance or the PCO hire company may struggle to process the claim without proper evidence.
Read Also: PCO Car Insurance Cost: A Complete Guide for Drivers
Did you know?
Most PCO hire companies in London offer insurance, but if you’re at fault, you may still need to pay an excess fee (a set amount stated in your hire contract).
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Cooperate with Investigations
The insurer may sometimes need additional evidence. Cooperating with them can help ease the situation quickly. Avoid hiding any details and be fully honest. Any attempt to provide incomplete information or to lie can result in your licence suspension or even legal action against you.
Focus on Returning to Work Quickly
Time off the road means lost income. Once you have done your part, focus on returning to work as quickly as possible. If your hired car is still damaged, check whether your contract includes a replacement vehicle. If it does, ask your PCO hire company to provide you with a replacement car so you can continue working and earning. Choosing a company that offers a replacement vehicle helps you avoid long gaps in work and keeps your earnings stable.
Learn From the Experience
Even the most careful drivers can get involved in accidents. The most important thing is the lesson it teaches you. So, ask yourself, is there anything you can do to avoid accidents in the future?
Some tips to stay safe while driving include maintaining a safe distance from vehicles ahead, driving slowly in rainy or snowy weather, and avoiding driving when tired. These small changes can make a big difference in your safety on the road.
Read Also: Smart Driving Habits PCO Drivers Should Adopt to Avoid Accidents
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Final Thoughts
If your car is damaged in an accident, knowing what to do can help prevent unwanted expenses. Staying calm, reporting the accident to the relevant authorities, and cooperating with the insurers will help you proceed smoothly through the situation. So, follow the guidelines we mentioned above, keep the situation under control, and keep earning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you don’t report the accident in time?
Most private hire insurance companies require you to report the accident within 24-48 hours. Failing to report on time could cause your insurance protection to become void.
Who pays for the damage after an accident?
The insurance company pays for the damage if you follow the protocol. However, 100% coverage is not guaranteed as you may still need to pay an excess.
Do I get a replacement vehicle after an accident?
Reliable PCO car hire companies in London offer a replacement vehicle if the quick repairs aren’t possible. Always check your contract terms to see if you will get a replacement car or not.
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