August 1, 2023

Who Will Cover the Cost of My Rental Car Following a Car Accident?

If you were involved in a car accident that caused severe damage to your vehicle, you might have to spend a significant period in the shop getting repaired. Even the bodywork needed to repair bumps and scratches from a fender-bender can take a long time. However, who is liable for the cost if you have to pay for a rental car to get by after an accident? The answer depends on who was responsible for the accident. The at-fault driver’s insurance company may pay for the cost of your rental car.

How Can I Get Reimbursed for My Rental Car?

Just because the at-fault driver’s insurance company should pay for your rental car does not mean they will on the day you need one. You may have to rent one yourself and then try to get reimbursed for your costs. In this situation, you may not get your money back until your claim against the other driver has been settled. The insurance company may delay as long as possible and wait for the court to determine liability before reimbursing you. You must keep good records of all your rental costs to prove what you spent after the accident damaged your vehicle.

If your insurance policy covers a rental vehicle, it may be easier to use this option to avoid paying out of pocket. Then, it will be up to your insurance company to go after the at-fault driver’s insurance company to get reimbursed for the rental car you are using. Most policies cover rentals for only 30 days. You should also be aware that the insurance will likely only pay for a rental vehicle equivalent to the one you are repairing.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

No matter the circumstances, you should take the following steps after an accident to ensure you have all the documentation necessary to get rental coverage:

• Call the police at the accident scene to ensure that an official report is created documenting the damage to your vehicle.
• Exchange information with the other driver, including their name, phone number, license plate, insurance company, and insurance policy number.
• Take extensive photos and videos of the accident scene and vehicle damage. These can help demonstrate liability by showing the position of the cars after the accident.
• Contact an experienced lawyer for assistance dealing with the insurance company. They are more likely to respond to a lawyer than your phone calls and emails.

King of Prussia Car Accident Lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. Can Fight for Your Rights

Determining liability after a car accident can be complicated, and insurance companies may go out of their way to deny paying you costs for a rental car. For legal help, contact our King of Prussia car accident lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. Call us at 267-861-7100 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown.