After a car accident, rental car costs are typically covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance or your own policy if you carry rental reimbursement coverage. Which option applies depends on who caused the crash and what your policy includes. A Fayetteville car accident lawyer can help you identify which option applies in your situation.
Who is responsible for rental car costs after a crash?
The party responsible for paying for rental costs depends on who is at fault for the accident. North Carolina is a contributory negligence state (N.C.G.S. § 1-139), which means that at-fault parties are responsible for the damages they cause, and a party who is even 1% at fault is completely barred from recovering compensation.
Does your insurance policy pay for a rental vehicle?
While the other driver’s insurance pays for a rental car if they are at fault, your insurance coverage can help cover the cost of a rental vehicle if you were at fault or while fault is still being investigated. However, you must have rental reimbursement or collision coverage on your existing policy to file a rental reimbursement claim after an accident. Your insurance can also be used to help cover costs if liability is still being investigated.
Will the at-fault driver’s insurance cover your rental car?
In general, the at-fault driver’s insurance covers your rental car costs once fault is established. However, fault must be established and liability accepted before the insurance company will pay. This can take time while the cause of the accident is being investigated.
If the at-fault driver’s insurance pays for your rental vehicle, the payment extends through the time your vehicle is being repaired. If your car was damaged beyond repair, insurance covers a rental car until you receive a settlement that can be used to replace your vehicle. Keep in mind that the at-fault driver’s policy limits will determine the maximum coverage available for your rental.
How long can you keep a rental while your car is being repaired?
The length of time you can keep a rental car after an accident may depend on whether your car needs to be repaired or replaced. You can generally keep the rental while your vehicle is in the shop for repairs. If your car is totaled, insurance generally covers costs up until a few days after a settlement offer is received. If you need to keep a rental vehicle beyond these time limits, the rental car cost falls to you.
What if you have to pay for a rental car yourself?
If you have to pay out of pocket for your rental car, you may be able to receive reimbursements for these costs as part of an insurance claim. Paying for these costs yourself initially is not uncommon while fault is established or if you caused the accident. Your ability to recoup those costs depends on your policy terms and how your insurer handles the claim. A lawyer can help you navigate these nuances.
Speak with a Fayetteville car accident lawyer about recovering your expenses
The team at Fayetteville Car Accident Lawyer can help clients recover rental car costs and other accident-related losses. Call us at (866) 823-8288 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.