A car accident can leave you dealing with more than just vehicle damage—it can disrupt your daily life. If your car is in the shop or declared a total loss, you’ll likely need a rental vehicle. But who pays for it? This is where rental reimbursement comes into play.
Knowing your rights and how to claim this coverage can save you from unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about rental reimbursement, when insurance companies are responsible, and how an accident attorney in Crenshaw can help if your claim is denied.
What Is Rental Reimbursement Coverage?
Rental reimbursement is an optional coverage in many auto insurance policies that covers the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after an accident. It typically applies when:
- Your car is in the shop for accident-related repairs.
- Your vehicle is declared a total loss, and you need temporary transportation.
- You were not at fault, and the responsible party’s insurer covered the rental.
Rental car reimbursement coverage does not pay for a rental if your car is in the shop for routine maintenance or non-accident-related issues.
Who Pays for Your Rental Car After an Accident?
There are two primary ways you can get reimbursed for rental costs:
1. The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
If another driver caused the accident, their insurance should cover your rental car costs under their liability coverage. However, insurance companies often delay payments or dispute liability.
2. Your Insurance Policy
If you have rental reimbursement coverage, your insurer will pay for the rental upfront, even if you weren’t at fault. They may later seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
3. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own policy’s uninsured motorist coverage may help cover rental expenses, depending on your plan.
How Long Can You Keep the Rental Car?
The length of time you can keep a rental depends on several factors:
- Policy Limits – Most rental reimbursement policies cover a set daily allowance (e.g., $30–$50 per day) up to a maximum cap (e.g., $900 total). However, these limits vary between insurance providers, so it’s important to review your policy carefully. If your rental costs exceed your daily limit, you may have to pay the difference out of pocket.
- Repair Time – If your vehicle is repairable, coverage typically lasts until repairs are complete. It is best to consult with our attorney to determine if your rentals are covered until your vehicle repairs are done.
- Total Loss Cases – If your car is totaled, rental reimbursement typically ends when the insurance company makes a settlement offer.
What If the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Delays or Denies Rental Coverage?
Insurance companies frequently delay payments or deny claims to save money. If you’re experiencing issues:
- Demand a written explanation for the denial.
- Keep all receipts for out-of-pocket rental expenses.
- Contact Farahi Law Firm—an award-winning car accident attorney in Crenshaw—to dispute unfair denials and maximize your settlement.
Our award-winning car accident attorney can negotiate with insurers and take legal action if necessary.
Steps to Take to Get Your Rental Reimbursement Quickly
1. Consult our experienced car accident attorney.
Before dealing with insurance companies, consult our Torrance car accident lawyer to ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
2. Rent from an approved provider.
Some insurance companies require you to rent from specific agencies—check with your provider first.
3. Keep all receipts and documentation.
Maintain detailed records of your rental agreement and payments to ensure proper reimbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does rental reimbursement cover per day?
Most insurance policies set a daily limit on rental reimbursement, typically ranging from $30 to $50 per day. Some policies also include an overall cap (e.g., $900 total). Check your policy details or speak with our experienced attorney if your rental costs exceed your coverage.
What if I rent a car that costs more than my reimbursement limit?
If you choose a rental that costs more than your policy’s coverage limits, you must pay the difference out of pocket. You can reduce costs by selecting a rental car within the insurer’s approved range.
Does my insurance policy cover rental reimbursement?
Not all auto policies include rental reimbursement—it’s often an add-on. Here’s how to check:
- Review your auto policy under “rental reimbursement” or “transportation expenses.”
- Check your daily and total reimbursement limits.
- Speak to our attorney for a policy review to ensure you’re adequately covered.
Farahi Law Firm Can Help You
If you’ve been in a car accident in Torrance, you deserve more than just rental reimbursement—you deserve full compensation for your losses and the medical care you need to recover. At Farahi Law Firm, we fight to make sure accident victims receive every dollar they are entitled to, including coverage for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.
We Handle the Tough Insurance Battles for You
Insurance companies often delay, deny, or underpay claims. Our experienced legal team knows their tactics and won’t let them take advantage of you. We negotiate aggressively to secure the maximum compensation for your car accident claim, including rental reimbursement and medical expenses.
- We’ve helped car accident victims in Torrance get the money they deserve.
- We ensure you receive immediate medical treatment without worrying about upfront costs.
- We work on a no-win, no-fee basis—if we don’t win, you don’t pay.
Don’t let an insurance company dictate what you get. Farahi Law Firm is here to fight for you! Call us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on your feet.
