You need another form of transportation to get to work or take the kids to school following a car accident. Some households have access to a secondary vehicle, but many do not. What should you do while your car is in the shop? Many drivers assume their insurance provider will pay for a rental car, but that’s not always the case. Our Alpharetta car accident lawyers discuss what you need to know about rental coverage before you find yourself needing it:
Rental Coverage Is Optional
Every state has required minimums for car insurance coverage, and rental car coverage isn’t mandatory. Instead, insurers charge an additional premium for it. While it doesn’t usually cost much, many drivers forego this option. They assume they’ll never need it. However, they almost always regret that decision if they end up paying out of pocket to rent a vehicle after an accident.
Rental rates vary depending on the location, but they are on the rise. By the end of 2021, prices increased by an average of $35 per day. Since most vehicles stay in the shop for at least two weeks, drivers end up spending a pretty penny on transportation. With rental coverage, your insurance company will provide you with a comparable vehicle to use while your car gets repaired.
Unsure if you have rental coverage? A quick call to your insurance agent will give you the answer. You can also read your auto policy in full. If you don’t have it, inquire how much it would cost to add. There’s no reason to wait until renewal to buy this helpful coverage.
The Other Insurance Company Might Pay
What if you don’t have rental coverage? Before you take a second job to afford a temporary vehicle, you should contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company and ask them to pay for one. Legally, there’s nothing written in stone that says they have to oblige. Some will do the right thing and get you a car, but some won’t.
Even if you don’t get the answer you desire, don’t give up just yet. An Atlanta car accident lawyer can recover any fees you pay for a rental as part of your personal injury case. Keep track of any receipts and records from the rental company to ensure a timely repayment.
Legal Representation After an Injury Accident
Rental cars aren’t the only thing on your mind following an injury accident. Medical bills, lost wages, and long-term disability can keep you up at night. Instead of navigating the legal system alone, let the Macon, GA car accident lawyers at Howe Law Injury & Accident Lawyers lend a hand. We represent victims of car, truck, and motorcycle wrecks. With over 225 years of collective legal and trial experience, you can trust our Valdosta car accident lawyers to recover every dollar you deserve.
What’s the next step if you need transportation after an accident? Schedule a free consultation with our Nashville, TN car accident lawyers to demand the insurance company provide a rental car.
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