Consumer studies show that as many as 27% of collision claims result in a total loss, but this means that the vast majority of accidents simply require vehicle repairs. This leaves drivers without reliable transportation while their vehicles are in the shop and worries about how long insurance will pay for their rental car after an accident. Taking a closer look at the ins and outs of rental car coverage can help you feel more prepared and supported while your vehicle is off the road.
Will Insurance Pay for a Rental Car During Maintenance?
Insurance will likely pay for a rental car if your vehicle is undergoing maintenance due to another driver’s negligence, but this requires you to get the rental through the proper channels.
Getting a rental car starts with contacting a rental agency and presenting proof of the applicable insurance. The insurance company may have a preferred rental car agency, and choosing that agency can streamline the process, but you are generally free to choose any local agency.
Fault can determine who pays for a rental car after an accident. If you have rental reimbursement coverage, your auto insurance provider can cover the rental regardless of who is at fault. If another driver caused the accident, their auto insurance company would cover the rental instead.
When Does Insurance Stop Paying for a Rental Car?
How long insurance will pay for a rental car depends on the terms of the policy. They will typically pay for it until the repairs are complete or until you reach the coverage limit. They can also cease rental coverage immediately if your original car is declared a total loss at any point.
It is a misconception that the insurance company has to keep paying until you reach a settlement agreement for the accident claim. You cannot prolong the insurance company’s rental coverage simply by rejecting their settlement offers. However, rejecting a settlement offer is usually the correct course of action if the insurance company is not offering adequate compensation to cover your overall losses.
Do You Need a Lawyer To Help Get Compensation?
Having a lawyer on your side will help ensure that the insurance company compensates you appropriately for your car accident. Your lawyer can also advocate for additional compensation if you have to make rental car payments out of your own pocket. Having a legal team that can negotiate on even terms is often the best solution for dealing with an insurer who will not pay.
A lawyer can help you get compensation by:
- Negotiating with the insurance company
- Investigating the cause of the accident
- Reviewing insurance policies to determine coverage obligations
- Handling paperwork on your behalf
- Representing you in court if you decide to sue
Working with experienced lawyers can be instrumental in protecting your interests and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Let Our Car Accident Attorneys Help You Navigate Insurance & Rental Car Claims
At Sargon Law Group, we are passionate about making sure that injured people get every bit of the compensation they deserve. Negligent drivers should be held accountable for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages and even rental car payments.
Contact our Phoenix car accident lawyers to learn more about how Sargon Law Group can help you recover financial damages after an accident. We can answer your questions about how long insurance will pay for your rental car after an accident and guide you through every step of the legal process.