If you were involved in a collision in Georgia, you might wonder who pays for your rental car. Generally, the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover this cost. While you wait for the company to approve your claim, or if it denies coverage, you might be able to pay for the rental car through optional add-ons in your own insurance policy.
By knowing your options, you can manage this process smoothly and avoid paying out of pocket when you don’t have to.
How Do I Prove the Other Driver Was At Fault for the Accident?
The other driver’s insurance company will only cover the cost of your rental car if you can prove that their policyholder is responsible for causing the crash. To establish fault, you should gather evidence like the following:
- Police reports – Always report the accident to the police. The official report they take should contain details about how the collision occurred and who may be at fault, making it a crucial piece of evidence.
- Photos and videos – Take clear photos and videos of the accident scene, your damaged vehicle, and any visible injuries. This visual documentation can help support your claim.
- Witness statements – Witnesses can provide objective accounts of what happened. Collect their contact information and ask them to give statements supporting your version of events.
- Traffic camera footage – In some cases, footage from traffic or security cameras may be available to help prove fault. Your attorney can help you obtain this evidence.
Proving liability is critical to making the at-fault driver’s insurance company responsible for covering your rental car expenses. If you need help after a car accident, contact our Atlanta car accident lawyer today.
What Is the Process for Getting a Rental Car After the Accident?
Securing a rental car after an accident involves a few straightforward steps:
- Contact your insurance company – Even if the other driver was at fault, you must notify your insurer about the accident. They can help you understand your policy’s terms, including whether you have rental reimbursement coverage.
- Assess the damage – Take your vehicle to an approved repair shop for an inspection and repair estimate. This report will detail the extent of damage and how long repairs will likely take.
- Review your insurance coverage – Check your policy or speak with your agent to confirm your coverage limits. If you have rental reimbursement, your insurance should pay for the rental and seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
- Choose a rental car – Select a rental vehicle that meets your needs but stays within any limits set by your coverage or the at-fault insurance policy. Save all rental agreements and receipts to provide to the insurer.
Can I Get a Car That Is Comparable to My Damaged Car?
You are generally entitled to a rental car comparable to the one damaged in the accident. However, there are a few considerations:
- Insurance coverage limits – Most insurance policies have restrictions on the type of rental car you can choose. The insurer might only cover a vehicle similar in size and function to your own, not an upgrade.
- Daily rental rates – Insurers set daily rate limits on rental cars. If your preferred vehicle exceeds the limit, you might need to pay the difference out of pocket.
- Rental duration – The rental car should be used only for the period necessary to repair your vehicle or until a settlement is reached if the car is totaled.
Your insurance policy or the at-fault driver’s insurance will dictate the exact parameters, so checking the terms is important to ensure compliance.
What Happens If the Other Driver’s Insurance Refuses to Pay for a Rental Car?
If the at-fault driver’s insurance refuses to cover the rental car costs, you still have options.
Use Your Own Coverage
If you have rental reimbursement or collision coverage on your policy, these optional add-ons should cover the rental costs. Your insurance company will then pursue reimbursement from the at-fault insurer through a process called subrogation.
Seek Legal Assistance
Insurance companies will deny claims whenever they think they can get away with it. If you believe the denial is unjustified, consulting a Georgia car accident lawyer can help. They can negotiate with the insurance company or take legal action to help you seek compensation for your losses, including any out-of-pocket rental costs.
How Long Will Insurance Pay for a Rental Car After an Accident in Georgia?
The length of time an insurer will cover your rental car depends on the specifics of your situation:
- Repair duration – Insurance typically covers rental costs for the time required to fix your vehicle. If repairs take longer than expected, it’s important to communicate with the repair shop and your insurance company to adjust the rental period.
- Total loss claims – If your vehicle is declared a total loss, you’ll need to replace it. The insurance company should keep paying for the rental car until you reach a settlement or the time limit on the policy.
- Policy limits – Rental coverage often has a maximum time limit. Be sure to understand these terms to avoid unexpected expenses.
Being proactive and maintaining communication with the repair shop and your insurer can help ensure that you have rental car coverage for as long as you need it.
Contact a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer
Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you need a rental car to maintain your daily life. The car accident attorneys at Bayuk Pratt know the tactics insurers use to avoid paying claims. We can help you:
- Prove liability for the accident
- Negotiate with insurance companies for fair rental car coverage
- Ensure you demand proper compensation for all accident-related expenses
- Protect your rights throughout the claims process
Don’t let insurance companies shortchange you on rental car coverage or any other aspect of your accident claim. Instead, contact Bayuk Pratt today for a free consultation. Our aggressive approach and insider knowledge of how insurance companies operate can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Our personal injury attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience, over which we have secured more than $300 million in compensation for accident victims. Our clients call us “thorough and thoughtful,” as we prepare meticulously from day one to take cases to trial and have an unwavering commitment to injury victims and their families. Don’t hesitate to reach out and learn how we can help you.
