Break the period into smaller sections and explain what happened at each stage. Include details of when parts were ordered, when repairs started, and any chasers sent to the garage. Supporting documents like call notes and garage correspondence strengthen the explanation. A blanket statement that "the hire was needed for X days" is rarely sufficient.
Related: witness statement drafting software for UK law firms, covering automated CPR Part 32 compliance checks and the UK authority libraries behind every draft.
What should a credit hire witness statement include?
A credit hire witness statement should cover the accident circumstances, vehicle damage, need for a hire vehicle, the hire period and why it was reasonable, any intervention offers received, and financial disclosure if impecuniosity is claimed. It must end with a statement of truth and comply with CPR Part 32 formatting requirements.
How long should a credit hire period be?
The hire period should last only as long as reasonably necessary. For repairable vehicles, this typically means the repair period plus a reasonable time for assessment and authorisation. For total losses, it runs until the claimant receives the settlement payment and has had reasonable time to source a replacement.
How do you challenge an insurer's argument on hire period?
Document every stage of the repair or write-off process with dates. Show when the vehicle was inspected, when parts were ordered, when repairs began and completed, and any delays outside the claimant's control. Call notes and garage correspondence proving the claimant actively chased progress are particularly helpful.
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