Day: February 21, 2024

If you were involved in a car accident and your vehicle was damaged, you will need to have your car repaired. In extreme cases, you may need to replace your vehicle if it was totaled in the accident. Either way, in the days or weeks it takes to get an estimate and have the repairs completed, you will need an alternate mode of transportation to get around.

Depending on the number of days or weeks that your car is in the shop, the costs of a rental vehicle can accumulate quickly. Fortunately, if the other motorist involved in the accident was at fault, you will not have to pay the costs of your rental car. An experienced car accident lawyer will assist you.

How Do I Get My Rental Car Paid for After an Accident?

In the state of Georgia, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for covering the costs of your rental vehicle. The rental company will usually bill the at-fault driver’s insurance company directly. Your insurance adjuster can explain the daily rate approved for coverage and if there is an overall limit. If your rental costs exceed your policy’s limits, you will likely be responsible for covering the difference out of your pocket.

If your auto insurance policy does not include rental insurance, you can still seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, the process is a bit more complicated. If you can do so, you will have to cover the costs of the rental vehicle and file a claim against the at-fault driver seeking reimbursement from their insurance company. Unfortunately, these claims are often delayed or denied. Hiring a skilled car accident lawyer to help you navigate the claims process is highly recommended.

Do I Need to Purchase Insurance for a Rental Car?

Rental car companies often encourage customers to purchase insurance to cover the car when they use the vehicle. This is an added expense that is generally optional. If you have collision insurance through your auto insurance policy, this generally covers rental cars with the same coverage limits and deductible as your policy. If your rental car is damaged in an accident, your collision insurance will pay for the repairs if you need to file a car insurance claim.

What Steps Do I Need to Take to Get Reimbursed for a Car Rental?

To make the process of getting reimbursed for your rental vehicle as seamless and uncomplicated as possible, you will need to take the following steps:

• Keep copies of receipts. To be reimbursed in a timely manner for the costs associated with your rental, it is important that you keep copies of all receipts and records of your rental car expenses. This will provide proof of the costs you incurred as a result of the accident.
• File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance. If you can prove that the other driver was responsible for causing the accident, you can file a claim with their insurance company and seek reimbursement for your rental car expenses. The total amount you can recover will depend on the at-fault driver’s liability insurance policy.
• Use your insurance. If your policy has rental coverage, you can file an initial claim through your insurance company. Your insurance agent can seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer. This process is called subrogation.

A Savannah Car Accident Lawyer at Kicklighter Law Will Help You if You Were in a Crash

If you were involved in a car accident that caused damage to your vehicle or severe injuries, do not hesitate to contact a Savannah car accident lawyer at Kicklighter Law. We will assist you and pursue the financial compensation you deserve, including rental vehicle costs. To schedule a consultation, call us today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.