After a car accident in Indiana, the at-fault party’s insurer generally covers the cost of a rental car if you need one. However, you may need to pay out-of-pocket or through your own insurance coverage at first and then seek reimbursement later. An experienced Indiana car accident attorney can provide the support and advocacy you need throughout the process.
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When Will Insurance Cover a Rental Car?
After a car accident in Indiana, you may be able to get coverage for rental car costs through several avenues, including:
- The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance – If another driver caused the accident, their liability coverage will likely pay for your rental car. However, you might need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement later.
- Your Collision Coverage – If you were at fault for the accident and have collision coverage, your insurer may cover rental costs while your car undergoes repairs.
- Your Rental Reimbursement Coverage – This optional add-on to your policy covers rental expenses regardless of fault.
Remember that insurance companies often have daily and total maximum limits for rental car coverage. They may also restrict the rental period to a “reasonable” time for repairs. An experienced Indiana car accident attorney can fight for your right to reasonable coverage. They can also seek resolutions to disputes with insurers about rental car provisions.
What Is Rental Reimbursement Coverage?
Rental reimbursement coverage is an optional feature you can add to your auto insurance policy. It helps pay for a rental car when your vehicle is unusable as a result of a covered accident or other insured event.
The following are some key points about rental reimbursement coverage:
- You must opt for this coverage, as it is not automatically included in standard policies.
- Insurers typically set daily and total maximum amounts they will pay.
- In many cases, this coverage will not apply if your car needs repairs due to a non-covered situation, such as routine maintenance.
- The cost is usually inexpensive compared to other coverage types.
While not mandatory, rental reimbursement coverage can provide peace of mind and financial protection after an accident.
What Steps Should I Follow to Get a Rental Car After a Car Accident?
You can make the process of getting a rental car after an Indiana car accident more efficient by following these steps:
- Report the accident to your insurance company immediately.
- Determine who was at fault, as this affects which insurance company should cover the rental.
- Check your policy to understand your coverage limits and any requirements.
- Obtain authorization from the appropriate insurance company before renting.
- Choose a rental company. (Many insurers have partnerships with specific rental agencies.)
- Keep all receipts and documentation, as you will need these for reimbursement.
- Once your vehicle is repaired or you have purchased a replacement, return the rental promptly to avoid extra charges.
If you are having a hard time getting the insurance coverage you are entitled to, consider contacting a car accident attorney. They can help with any difficulties you encounter during this process.
What Type of Rental Car Can I Get?
The type of rental car you can get after an accident depends on several factors:
- Your Policy Limits – Insurance typically covers a car similar in size and quality to your damaged vehicle.
- Available Inventory – Rental agencies may have limited options, especially during busy periods.
- Your Needs – If you require a specific type of vehicle, such as one that accommodates a disability, communicate this to your insurer.
- Length of Rental – For extended rentals, insurers might restrict you to more economical options.
Insurance companies usually adhere to the “like kind and quality” principle, which means they will cover a rental similar to your own car. For example, if you drive a compact sedan, you should not expect coverage for a luxury SUV. Additionally, some policies may have specific restrictions on vehicle types or sizes. Always check your policy or consult your insurer directly to understand what’s covered.
An Indiana car accident attorney can advocate on your behalf if you believe the offered rental does not meet your needs.
How Long Can I Keep the Rental Car?
In general, the length of time for which you can keep a rental car after an accident depends on these factors:
- Repair Time – You can usually keep the rental until your car is fixed or declared a total loss.
- Policy Limits – Your insurance may have a maximum number of days or a total dollar amount for rental coverage.
- Claim Resolution – Disputes about fault or coverage might affect how long you can keep the rental.
- Total Loss Situations – If your car is totaled, you might be able to rent a car for a “reasonable” time until you find a replacement vehicle.
- Your Actions – You can help maximize your rental time by promptly approving repairs and responding to insurer requests.
Insurance companies expect you to return the rental car in a reasonable amount of time. This means promptly picking up your repaired vehicle or quickly finding a replacement if yours is totaled. If repairs take longer than expected or you face other complications, communicate with your insurer. They might extend the rental period if you have a valid reason.
Contact an Indiana Car Accident Lawyer
After an accident, insurance companies may try to take advantage of victims who do not have a thorough knowledge of the claims process. When dealing with a complicated matter such as rental car coverage and who pays for a rental car after an accident in Indiana, you need an experienced Indiana personal injury attorney who understands how insurance companies work.
For the last forty years, the legal team at Truitt Law Offices has offered high-quality legal representation to victims of car accidents. With our team on your side, you will benefit from the inside knowledge that only a former defense attorney for insurance companies can provide. We are ready to fight for you and seek the full compensation you deserve, including rental car reimbursement, medical expenses, and lost income. Contact us today for a free consultation so our attorneys can start working on your behalf.
