Accident and crash recovery
After a crash the priority is safety and a clear plan for the vehicle. Direct Recovery lists independent recovery agents you can call to collect an undrivable car — whether insurers are involved yet or you are paying privately.
Private pay vs insurer recovery
If your insurer is arranging recovery, follow their process. If you need a faster private collection, or the vehicle is blocking a road or driveway, call an agent from this directory, agree the price and destination, and keep photos and the agent’s details for any later claim.
What to tell the agent
Say it is an accident recovery, whether the car still rolls or needs a winch / flatbed, how many wheels are down, and where it needs to go (home, body shop, or compound). Mention airbag deployment, fluid leaks, or if the vehicle is on private land with access limits.
Documents and belongings
Remove valuables if it is safe to do so. Note the registration, mileage if visible, and the collection address. Ask the agent for a receipt or job reference once the vehicle is loaded.
Questions
Will calling an agent affect my insurance?
That depends on your policy. Many people use private recovery then reclaim costs; others wait for insurer-appointed recovery. Check with your insurer if you are unsure.
Can you recover from a car park or driveway?
Often yes. Tell the agent about height barriers, locked gates, or tight spaces when you call so they bring the right truck.