The aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, and figuring out who pays for a rental car after a car accident can make this period even more frustrating. If your vehicle is damaged in a crash, you might need a rental car to get around while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced. But who pays for a rental car after a car accident in Houston, Texas? Let’s break it down so it’s easier to understand and help you figure out your options.
Does the At-Fault Driver Pay for the Rental Car?
In Texas, the person who caused the accident, or the at-fault driver, is typically responsible for covering the resulting losses and expenses. This includes your rental car costs. If the at-fault driver’s insurance accepts liability, their insurance company will likely pay for a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired. However, this process is not always straightforward.
Sometimes, the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier may delay or deny paying for a rental car. In these situations, you might need to pay out of pocket first and then get reimbursed later. Remember that the insurance company will only cover rental costs for a reasonable number of days, usually until your car is fixed or declared a total loss.
Will Your Insurance Cover a Rental Car After an Accident?
If the at-fault driver’s insurance is dragging its feet or you’re still waiting for the claim to process, your own car insurance might help. Check if your policy includes rental car coverage. This coverage is optional, so not everyone has it. If you do, your insurance carrier can cover the cost of a rental car after you pay your deductible.
Another option is collision coverage. If you have this type of coverage, your insurance company may pay for a rental car while it’s processing your claim. However, you’ll need to file a claim with your insurer and may still need to wait for reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance later.
How to File a Claim for Rental Car Costs
Filing a claim for rental car expenses involves gathering and submitting important details. Here’s what to do:
- Contact the Insurance Company – Notify both your insurance carrier and the at-fault driver’s insurance company about the accident.
- Provide Documentation – Share police reports, photos of the accident, and any other evidence showing the other driver’s fault.
- Request Rental Car Coverage – Ask about the specific process for getting rental costs covered.
- Keep Receipts – Save all receipts and invoices related to renting a vehicle, as you’ll need these for reimbursement.
What If Your Car Is a Total Loss?
If your car is declared a total loss, rental car coverage might only last a few days after the insurance company decides not to repair your car. You’ll need to work quickly to arrange a replacement vehicle. In this case, the cost of a rental car can add up fast, so knowing your coverage limits is important.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Rental Car Coverage?
Without rental car coverage, you’ll need to rent a vehicle and pay out of pocket. You can still pursue reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance, but this might take time. If the other driver’s insurance refuses to cover your rental car costs, an experienced car accident lawyer can step in and advocate for you.
How Long Will Insurance Cover a Rental Car?
The number of days rental car costs are covered depends on the situation. Typically, insurance companies will only pay for a rental vehicle until your car is repaired or a settlement is reached for a total loss. However, they may argue over what they consider a “reasonable” time frame. This is where having experienced car accident lawyers on your side can make a difference.
What If the Rental Company Charges Extra Fees?
Rental car companies may charge extra fees, like insurance or upgrade costs. These additional charges are usually not covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance or your own policy. To avoid surprises, review your rental agreement carefully. If you’re unsure about what you’ll need to pay, contact an experienced Houston car accident attorney for assistance.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?
Dealing with rental car expenses and insurance claims after a car accident can feel overwhelming. That’s why working with a car accident lawyer can make all the difference. Your attorney will help you:
- Prove the other driver was at fault
- File a claim for rental car costs
- Deal with stubborn insurance carriers
- Fight for reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
Common Questions about Rental Car Costs
After an accident, you must understand your rights. In many cases, victims have questions regarding rental car costs. Some of the most common that we are asked include:
Does the at-fault driver’s insurance always pay for a rental car?
Not always. The at-fault driver’s insurance carrier may delay accepting liability, making you pay out of pocket first.
Can I rent any type of vehicle?
Most insurance policies cover a rental vehicle similar to the one you own. Upgrades might not be reimbursed.
What happens if I don’t have collision or rental car coverage?
You’ll need to pay out of pocket initially, but you can seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance later.
Why Choose Gibson Hill Personal Injury for Your Car Accident Case?
At Gibson Hill Personal Injury, we know how challenging picking up the pieces after a car accident can be. You shouldn’t have to worry about rental car costs or fighting with insurance companies alone. With years of experience helping accident victims in Houston, Texas, we understand what it takes to get results. Our team will fight for fair treatment from the insurance company.
Don’t let rental car costs or other expenses hold you back from pursuing the full physical, financial, and emotional recovery you deserve. Contact Gibson Hill Personal Injury today at 713-659-4000 for a free consultation. Let us help you get your life back on track after a car accident.