How to Get a Rental Car After an Accident
A car accident is often a difficult ordeal, especially when you consider the time spent talking with insurance, vehicle repairs, and especially, finding transportation while your vehicle is being repaired. One of the most important aspects to consider after a car accident is getting a rental car. This will allow you to have transportation while your vehicle is getting fixed as well as transportation to and from medical visits. Let’s learn more about how to get a rental car after an accident with the attorneys at The Mutrux Firm today!
Assessing Insurance Coverage
The first thing to do after a car accident is to see if your insurance covers a rental car. It is important to understand the specifics of your auto insurance policy to know how much the rental car is going to cost. Depending on your insurance policy, there are often various levels of coverage, which can significantly affect your out-of-pocket expenses.
Checking Rental Car Coverage in Your Policy
It is important to review your insurance policy to see if your coverage includes the cost of a rental car. Many insurance policies have provisions for rental car reimbursement, which covers the cost of the rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. Oftentimes, your policy will have a maximum daily allowance and a total reimbursement cap. It is important to check your policy so you know the extent of your coverage.
Contacting Your Insurance Provider
Once you’ve reviewed your insurance policy, get in touch with them right away. Tell them about the accident and ask about any rental car coverage available in your policy. Provide all the necessary details, such as the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the names and insurance information of all parties involved. Your insurance representative will guide you through the claims process and advise you on the next steps.
Verifying Liability Coverage
Depending on your specific case, the at-fault party’s insurance will cover the cost of your rental car. If the other driver is found responsible for the accident, their liability coverage should cover your rental car. It’s important that you ask about the at-fault party’s insurance provider, however, it is recommended not to contact them until you consult an attorney.
Understanding Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
Comprehensive and collision coverage on your auto insurance policy is designed to repair your own vehicle, however, depending on the insurance coverage, rental car reimbursement might be included as well. If you are found at-fault, or partially at-fault for the accident, your comprehensive or collision coverage might come into play. It is important to ask your insurance provider to make sure the cost of your rental car is covered.
Checking Credit Card Rental Car Benefits
If your insurance policy does not provide sufficient coverage for your rental car, you might be able to check with your credit card company to see if they offer any benefits. Depending on the credit card company, you might receive rental car insurance as a cardholder perk, covering everything from collision damage to theft. Get in touch with your credit card company to learn more about the terms and conditions of their rental car insurance.
Reviewing Additional Rental Car Coverages
If your existing insurance coverage and credit card benefits don’t cover the cost of your rental car, the rental car agency you use might offer additional insurance options. Some of these can include collision damage waivers and even liability coverage. Although they are convenient, these usually come with an additional cost. Before opting for third-party insurance coverage through the rental car agency, it is important to carefully review the terms, coverage limits, and any fees before making your decision.
Choosing a Reputable Rental Car Provider
Now that you have a clear understanding of your insurance coverage, you can choose your rental car provider. It is important to consider some factors such as the company’s reputation, customer reviews, rental car fleet, and the availability and convenience of pick-up and drop-off locations. If you need help choosing a rental car company, get in touch with The Mutrux Firm, as we will assist you throughout the process.
Contacting the Rental Car Company
Now that you’ve selected a rental car provider, get in touch with them and provide them information such as your name, contact information, insurance information, and the details of the accident. Let them know how long you will need the rental, and what type of vehicle you typically drive. This will help them provide you the right vehicle that best fits your lifestyle.
Confirming Rental Car Availability
Before you confirm the rental car reservation, make sure the vehicle you want is available. Often, rental car companies have a wide variety of different vehicles to choose from, such as sedans, SUVs, trucks, and minivans. It is important that you choose the right vehicle to fit your lifestyle, and ensure you are comfortable. Also, be sure to ask about any type of discounts that the company might have available to you.
Understanding Rental Car Agreement Terms
It is important to carefully review your rental car contract before signing. Make sure you are aware of important details such as the rental period, mileage limits, fuel policy, and any other fees and charges that might appear. This will prevent you from running into any issues or surprise charges, and help to alleviate any problems in the long run.
Providing Necessary Documentation
When making your reservation, you will likely need to present your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a credit card in your name. Be sure to have a copy of your insurance policy if it extends to rental cars, or a letter from your insurance company outlining your specific coverages.
Verifying Payment and Charges
Make sure you have your payment details handy, such as payment method, any upfront charges or deposits required. Depending on the rental car company, they might place a hold on your credit card as a security deposit. It is important to understand the charges associated with your rental, such as daily rental rates, additional mileage fees, and fuel charges. It is important to keep a record of the reservation confirmation and payment receipts for reference.
Conducting a Pre-Rental Inspection
When you receive your rental car, it is important to inspect the vehicle with your representative from the company, ensuring that there is no existing damage, no matter how minor. If there is damage to the vehicle, it is important to bring it up to the representative before driving the vehicle. This is critical, as it will help avoid any additional fees, or you getting blamed for any pre-existing damage.
Familiarizing Yourself with the Rental Car
Before hitting the road, take some time to familiarize yourself with the rental car’s features and controls. Adjust the mirrors, seat position, and steering wheel to ensure a comfortable driving experience. Verify that all essential functions, such as lights, turn signals, brakes, and air conditioning, are in working order. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask the rental car representative for assistance.
Need Help Getting a Rental Car? Mutrux Can Help!
Have you been in an accident and want to get a rental car while your vehicle is getting fixed? As your attorney, we will help organize a rental car for you, allowing as little interruption as possible. After securing your rental car, your attorney will help you through your case, making sure that you get the compensation you deserve, every step of the way. Get in touch with the Mutrux Firm at (314) 270-2273 today for your free consultation, and to get started on your case.