Breakdown & Accidents

Good news first: every car, van and minibus you hire from us includes comprehensive roadside breakdown cover. So if a mechanical fault stops you in your tracks, help is always close at hand. Here's what to do.

Your safety matters more than the vehicle. If you feel a fault developing:

• Pull over carefully — Well away from moving traffic.
• Use the hard shoulder — Or a designated refuge area on motorways and dual carriageways.
• Exit on the left — Through the passenger-side doors, away from traffic.
• Stand behind the barrier — And switch on your hazard warning lights.

Help is only a phone call away. Check your keyring for the dedicated breakdown number supplied with your vehicle. When you call, the support team will ask for:

• Your location — Be as precise as you can.
• Vehicle registration — Found on your paperwork or the number plate.
• Short description — Of what's gone wrong.

An accident is stressful, but staying calm and following the right steps keeps everyone safe and protects any future claim. Take it one step at a time.

Stop and Secure the Area

Stopping is a legal requirement, not a choice. As soon as it's safe:

• Stop the vehicle — In a safe spot, even after a minor knock.
• Switch off the engine — And turn on your hazard lights.
• Alert other drivers — To reduce the risk of a second collision.

Check for Injuries

People come before paperwork. Check yourself, your passengers and anyone else involved. If someone is hurt, or the vehicles are blocking the road dangerously, dial 999 straight away and ask for the police and ambulance service.

UK law requires you to share details with everyone involved. Make sure you swap:

• Names and home addresses — For all drivers involved.
• Phone numbers — So everyone can stay in contact.
• Vehicle registration plates — Note them down clearly.
• Insurance information — From each party.

One vital point: never admit fault or accept liability at the roadside. Simply gather the facts and leave the rest to the insurers.

A clear record protects you later. If it's safe to move around:

• Take photos — Of the road layout, vehicle positions, and all visible damage.
• Note the conditions — The time of day and the weather.
• Record witnesses — Names and numbers of anyone who saw what happened.

Call us as soon as you safely can. We'll talk you through the next steps and provide a formal accident report form for you to complete. This goes to our insurance providers, so the sooner we hear from you, the smoother the process.