After a car accident, having a vehicle is a primary concern. If your vehicle is damaged and can’t be driven, check to see if the at-fault driver has rental car coverage. If not, contact your insurance company about your rental car coverage. Take pictures of the accident, gather information from the other driver and get a police report.
For How Long Can I Have a Rental Car?
If there is rental car coverage, discuss the length of time with the insurance company right away. Stay in communication with the repair shop and let the insurance company know of any delays or complications in the repairs so you can try to negotiate extra time for the rental car. Insurance companies often try to unfairly limit the amount of time you can have a rental car.
If you need a new car, typically the insurance company will not allow a reasonable time to obtain a new car. You should start looking for a new car as soon as your car is declared a total loss, even before you know the settlement amount. The insurance company may also be liable for any personal property you may have had in the car. Keep all receipts and documents related to this personal property so you can be reimbursed for these expenses during this time.
Type of Rental Car Allowed
The rental car should be comparable to the car that was damaged in the accident. If you were driving a pickup truck, a similar vehicle must be provided. Tell the insurance company specifically what kind of vehicle you were driving and the features. If you have special requirements for work or family, communicate this clearly to the insurance company.
What if There is a Dispute About Who’s At Fault?
If the other driver is not accepting responsibility, then you will need to go through your own insurance company to get the rental car if you have rental car coverage. Your insurance company will then fight the at-fault driver’s insurance company to get reimbursed for the rental car once liability has been determined. Inform your insurance company about the accident immediately and they will walk you through this process. You will most likely need an attorney to help resolve the issue of who’s at fault and to fight to obtain the maximum compensation you are allowed.
Rental Cars (Accident Related) FAQs
After an accident, securing a rental car can be a crucial part of managing your daily life while your vehicle is being repaired.
Understanding your rental car rights and options can help you avoid unnecessary stress and expenses. This guide provides clear answers to common questions about rental car entitlements, making it easier for you to navigate the process and get back on the road quickly.
Here are 20 essential things you need to know about getting a rental car after an accident:
1. Am I entitled to a rental car after an accident?
Whether you are entitled to a rental car after an accident depends on your insurance policy. Many comprehensive and collision insurance policies include rental car coverage, which means your insurer will cover the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. However, if you only have liability coverage, rental car costs may not be included. It’s important to review your policy or contact your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.
2. How do I get a rental car if my vehicle is being repaired after an accident?
To get a rental car after an accident, start by contacting your insurance company. They will guide you through the process, which typically involves approving the rental and providing you with a list of approved rental car companies. Your insurer may arrange the rental directly with the rental car company or provide you with a claim number to use when picking up the rental. Make sure to provide all necessary documentation, including your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and credit card.
3. Who pays for the rental car after an accident?
If you have rental car coverage as part of your insurance policy, your insurance company will cover the cost of the rental car up to the policy limits. If the accident was caused by another driver and their insurance accepts liability, their insurance should cover the rental car expenses. In cases where neither applies, you may need to pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement later, depending on the circumstances and coverage involved.
4. How long can I keep the rental car after an accident?
The length of time you can keep the rental car depends on your insurance policy and the time required for your vehicle’s repairs. Insurance companies typically cover the rental car for a set number of days, often between 30 and 45 days. If repairs take longer than expected, you may need to request an extension from your insurance provider. Extensions are usually granted if there are valid reasons for the delay, but any rental period beyond the policy limit may require you to cover additional costs.
5. What types of rental cars are covered by insurance after an accident?
The types of rental cars covered by insurance are usually similar in size and type to your own vehicle. For example, if you drive a sedan, your insurance will likely cover a rental sedan. Luxury vehicles and specialty cars are typically not covered unless specified in your policy. It’s essential to confirm with your insurer what type of rental car is covered to avoid any unexpected expenses.
6. Do I need rental car insurance if my vehicle is being repaired after an accident?
Whether you need rental car insurance depends on your existing coverage. If your insurance policy includes rental car insurance, you may already be covered. However, if not, or if you have concerns about additional liability, you can purchase rental car insurance from the rental company. This typically includes collision damage waiver (CDW), liability coverage, and personal accident insurance, providing extra protection during the rental period.
7. What if the rental car costs more than the amount covered by insurance?
If the cost of the rental car exceeds the amount covered by your insurance policy, you will be responsible for the difference. For example, if your policy covers $30 per day for a rental car but you choose a vehicle that costs $50 per day, you would need to pay the additional $20 per day out of pocket. It’s important to choose a rental car that fits within your insurance coverage limits to avoid extra expenses.
8. Can I choose which rental car company to use after an accident?
While your insurance company may have preferred rental car companies they work with, you often have the flexibility to choose a different rental company if needed. However, using a preferred provider may streamline the process and ensure that the costs are covered directly by your insurer. If you decide to use a different company, confirm with your insurance provider to ensure that they will cover the costs.
9. How do I handle the rental car process if the other driver is at fault?
If the other driver is at fault, their insurance should cover your rental car expenses. You will need to provide their insurance information to your rental car company and your own insurer. Their insurance company will typically handle the rental car arrangements and cover the costs directly. In some cases, you may need to pay for the rental upfront and seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
10. What should I do if my insurance policy doesn’t include rental car coverage?
If your policy doesn’t include rental car coverage, you have a few options. You can pay for the rental out of pocket or consider purchasing rental car coverage separately through your insurer or the rental car company. Some credit card companies also offer rental car coverage if you use their card to pay for the rental. Additionally, if the other driver is at fault, their insurance may cover your rental car expenses.
11. Can I get reimbursed for rental car expenses after an accident?
If you paid for a rental car out of pocket and it’s covered by insurance, you can submit a claim to get reimbursed. Keep all receipts and documentation related to the rental. Your insurance company will require proof of payment and details about the rental period. If the other driver is at fault, you can also seek reimbursement from their insurance company.
12. How does the rental car process work if my vehicle is totaled?
If your vehicle is totaled, your insurance company will typically cover a rental car for a limited time while you arrange for a replacement vehicle. The rental period is usually specified in your policy and may last up to 30 days. During this time, you should work with your insurer to settle the claim and purchase a new vehicle. Once you receive a settlement, the rental car coverage will usually end.
13. What happens if the rental car gets damaged while I’m using it?
If the rental car is damaged while you’re using it, report the incident to the rental car company and your insurance provider immediately. The rental company will assess the damage and may charge you for the repairs. Depending on your insurance policy and the rental agreement, the costs may be covered by your insurance or the rental car insurance you purchased. Make sure to understand the terms and conditions of your rental agreement to know your responsibilities.
14. Are there any limitations on the type of rental car I can get after an accident?
Yes, there are usually limitations on the type of rental car covered by insurance. Insurance policies typically cover a rental car that is similar in size and type to your own vehicle. Luxury vehicles, specialty cars, or larger vehicles may not be covered unless specified in your policy. It’s important to choose a rental car that meets your insurance company’s requirements to avoid additional out-of-pocket costs.
15. What should I do if the insurance company delays the rental car approval?
If your insurance company delays the rental car approval, contact them to expedite the process. Document all communications and keep a record of the delay. If necessary, speak with a supervisor or file a complaint with your state’s insurance department. In some cases, you may need to pay for the rental car upfront and seek reimbursement once the approval is granted.
16. Can I extend the rental car period if my vehicle repairs take longer than expected?
Extensions may be possible if your vehicle repairs take longer than expected, but you will need approval from your insurance company. Contact your insurer to explain the situation and request an extension. If the rental period exceeds your policy limits, you may have to cover the additional costs. It’s important to communicate with your repair shop and insurance company regularly to manage expectations.
17. What documentation do I need to rent a car after an accident?
To rent a car after an accident, you typically need your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a credit card. Your insurance company may also provide a claim number or authorization for the rental. Additionally, you may need to provide details about the accident and repair timeline. Make sure to have all necessary documents ready to streamline the rental process.
18. How do I handle rental car expenses if the accident occurred out of state?
If the accident occurred out of state, inform your insurance company about the situation. The process for handling rental car expenses is similar to in-state accidents. Your insurer will guide you through the steps and provide assistance with arranging a rental car. Make sure to keep all documentation and receipts, as you may need to submit them for reimbursement.
19. What should I do if my rental car is involved in another accident?
If your rental car is involved in another accident, report the incident to the rental car company and your insurance provider immediately. Follow their instructions for handling the situation, which may include filing a police report and documenting the damage. The rental car company will assess the damage and determine the necessary repairs. Depending on your insurance policy and rental agreement, the costs may be covered by your insurance or the rental car insurance you purchased.
20. Are there any alternative transportation options if I can’t get a rental car?
If you can’t get a rental car, there are alternative transportation options available. These include using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, public transportation, carpooling with friends or family, or renting a car from a different rental company. Some insurance policies may cover alternative transportation costs, so check with your insurer to see what options are available.