Checked against official sources on 2026-11-04
Who pays for the replacement car?
When another driver is at fault, the reasonable cost of a comparable replacement car while yours is off the road can usually be claimed from that driver or their insurer. An accident-management company can provide the car and recover those costs, so you don't pay upfront if you are eligible.
What makes you eligible
- The other driver was at fault, or mostly at fault, and you can show it (photos, witnesses, their admission, a police report number).
- You need a car for daily life while yours is repaired or assessed.
- You hold a full licence. MotorClaim's replacement cars are for NSW and don't accept L or P plates.
Read these terms before you sign a hire agreement
- What happens if liability is disputed or the other insurer refuses to pay.
- The excess and fees if the replacement car is damaged while you have it.
- Fuel, tolls and fines: who pays them.
- When the car has to be returned (usually when your car is repaired, or paid out if it's a total loss).
Comparable means similar, not identical
A comparable car is a similar category and size — a people mover for a family that drives one, an SUV for an SUV. It may not be the same make or model.
How MotorClaim handles it
We check eligibility first, explain the agreement line by line, and deliver a car from our fleet of 100+ hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, people movers and utes, door to door. We deal with the at-fault insurer. Recovery is never guaranteed, and we tell you straight away if your situation doesn't fit.
Common questions
- Is a replacement car free if I'm not at fault?
- If you are eligible, the cost is claimed from the at-fault party or their insurer rather than paid by you upfront. The agreement explains what applies if liability is disputed.
- Can I get a replacement car on P plates?
- MotorClaim's replacement cars need a full licence; L and P plate drivers aren't accepted.
- How long can I keep the replacement car?
- Generally while your car is being assessed and repaired, or until a total-loss payout. Your agreement sets out the exact terms.
Sources
General information only, not legal advice. Your situation depends on the facts and the terms you sign.
