Drive away from our Telford branch feeling completely secure. We want you to understand exactly how we protect you and the vehicle during your hire period. This page explains our standard insurance cover, your financial responsibilities, and the specific exclusions that apply. We keep our policies clear so you know exactly what to expect before you turn the key.
We include fully comprehensive insurance with every car, van, and minibus you book with Cargo Hire. This policy ensures you meet all UK legal requirements for driving on public roads. It protects you against third-party claims and covers accidental damage to the hire vehicle itself.
Like all standard motor policies, our cover includes a mandatory excess. This figure represents the absolute maximum amount you must pay towards repair costs if the vehicle suffers damage or theft. Please note that we do not sell excess reduction products or Collision Damage Waivers. Because of this, the standard excess applies to every private hire agreement.
The exact excess amount varies depending on the specific vehicle category you choose and the age of the primary driver.
We only charge for the actual damage. If a minor scratch costs less to fix than your excess limit, we will only bill you for that lower repair cost. If a major accident occurs, your financial liability stops at the agreed excess amount on your paperwork.
Certain situations fall entirely outside our insurance protection. In these specific cases, the excess cap becomes invalid, and you hold full responsibility for the total repair bill. These industry-standard exclusions include:
Driver Negligence
We do not cover damage resulting from reckless driving, ignoring traffic laws, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You also remain fully liable for any mechanical damage caused by putting the wrong fuel into the vehicle.
Glass, Tyres, and Interiors
The standard policy excludes all tyre punctures, alloy wheel damage, broken side windows, and cracked windscreens. It also does not cover rips, stains, or burns to the interior cabin seats and dashboard.
Overhead Impacts
You must pay the full repair cost for any roof damage caused by striking low bridges, overhanging branches, or car park height restrictors. You must pay special attention to height limits when hiring our larger commercial vans and refrigerated vehicles.
Yes, in some cases business account customers can arrange cover through their own fleet insurance policy. Please speak to our team before booking so we can confirm whether your policy meets our requirements.
If another road user is clearly at fault, we will work through the claims process using the details and evidence provided. However, you must still report the incident to us straight away and follow the correct accident procedure.
We may place a pre-authorisation or hold on your payment card during the hire period, depending on the type of booking and vehicle. Our team will explain this clearly before you collect the vehicle.
No. Our insurance only covers the hired vehicle and third-party liabilities. Personal possessions, tools, and any goods carried in the vehicle remain your responsibility.
If someone not named on the hire agreement drives the vehicle, your insurance cover may become invalid. This could leave you fully responsible for any damage, loss, or third-party costs.
Our team are always there to answer your call, assist you with your requirements and keep your business on the road.
Or call us today on 01634 722289