The days and weeks following a car accident can feel overwhelming and stressful. If you suffered injuries in the crash, you might feel worried about how you will pay your medical bills. Furthermore, if you can’t use your vehicle because of the damage it sustained in the collision, you will have to find an alternative means of traveling to your doctor appointments, work, and other obligations. Don’t know who pays for rental car after car accident?
With so much financial turmoil following a car accident, many people wonder, “Will insurance cover a rental car after an accident?” Knowing who is responsible for rental car coverage after a collision can help you make informed choices about how to proceed with your insurance claim. The knowledgeable team at the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Lawyers, Ltd. has compiled this guide to help you understand your rights and options.
Does the At-Fault Driver Pay for My Rental Car?
If you have suffered losses such as injuries or property damage in an auto accident someone else caused, the at-fault party is liable for any expenses resulting from the crash. As such, you are eligible to claim compensation for medical expenses, lost income due to missed time at work, vehicle repairs and replacement, and the loss of use of your vehicle. Included in these “loss of use” costs is the right to claim rental car expenses for the time you can’t use your vehicle.
In a best-case scenario, the at-fault driver’s insurer will accept liability immediately and inform you that they will cover the costs of your rental. However, you might need to pay for the car rental yourself upfront and receive a reimbursement when your settlement is finalized.
What if the At-Fault Party’s Insurer Does Not Accept Liability?
Who pays for rental car after car accident if the other driver’s insurer denies your claim or if more negotiations are needed before they accept responsibility? In such cases, you may need to turn to your insurance policy. Many policies have rental car coverage for these and similar scenarios. Your insurer will pay for your rental costs up to the amount you have purchased (insurance premiums). Keep in mind, however, that you might still be responsible for paying a deductible before the liability coverage kicks in. Review your policy carefully to avoid any surprises.
If your insurance policy does not include rental car coverage, you might need to pay out-of-pocket. However, it is always worth keeping the receipts of your rental payments in case your car accident compensation claim is eventually successful.
How Long Can I Keep the Rental Car?
The length of time you can keep a rental car after an accident depends on several factors, such as the severity of the damage to your vehicle and the terms of your insurance policy. In most cases, you can keep the rental car until your vehicle is repaired or until you receive a settlement from the at-fault party’s insurer. However, it is essential to communicate with your insurance adjuster and company and the rental car provider to ensure that you do not keep the rental car longer than necessary, as this can lead to additional costs.
What if My Vehicle Is a Total Loss?
If your vehicle is deemed a total loss after an accident, meaning that the cost of repairs exceeds the car’s value, you should still be eligible for rental car coverage. In this scenario, you can typically keep the rental car until you receive a settlement from the at-fault party’s insurer or until you purchase a replacement vehicle. It is crucial to discuss your options with your insurance company and the rental car provider to ensure that you are not incurring unnecessary expenses.
What Type of Vehicle Can I Rent?
The type of vehicle you can rent after an accident depends on your insurance policy and the rental car company’s availability. In most cases, you will be able to rent a vehicle similar in size and class to your car. For example, if your vehicle is a pickup truck, your rental vehicle should also be a pickup truck. However, if your policy has specific limitations or the rental car company does not have a comparable vehicle available, you may have to settle for a different type of car. Be sure to clarify these details with your insurance company and the rental car provider before making a reservation.
Can I Still Receive Compensation if I Do Not Need a Rental Car?
Many people arrange their alternative forms of transportation after an accident. For example, you might have a second vehicle or the opportunity to borrow a car from a friend or family member. However, even if you do not need a rental car after an accident, you may still be entitled to compensation for the loss of use of your vehicle. This compensation covers the time you couldn’t use your car, regardless of whether you rented a replacement vehicle.
The compensation you receive will depend on several factors. This includes the duration of the repairs and the value of your car. An experienced car accident attorney can help you determine the appropriate amount of compensation to seek in your claim.
Need Help After a Car Accident? Call the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Lawyers, Ltd. Today
Unsure who pays for rental car after car accident? Life in the days and weeks after an accident can feel emotionally, physically, and logistically challenging. The experienced car accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Lawyers, Ltd. are passionate about providing whatever assistance we can to individuals who have suffered injuries. Whether it be securing a rental vehicle, recovering loss of use compensation, or other aspects of your injury claim, we are ready to fight for you.
Filing a claim? Our team has been standing up for the rights of injured Rhode Islanders for decades. Our successful track record is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Let us give you the support and advocacy you deserve at this challenging time. Call us today at (401) 751-8855 or contact us online today for a free consultation with one of our car accident lawyers in Providence.
