Posted on Thursday, February 1st, 2024 at 9:00 am
A car accident can leave you with severe pain, limited mobility, and overwhelming medical bills. Furthermore, the collision might render your car undrivable. Getting the necessary repairs or securing a replacement car if your vehicle is totaled can take longer than you think. In the meantime, you might need to rent a car to get to medical appointments, work, or school.
But who pays for a rental car after a car accident? In the financially overwhelming aftermath of a crash, you might not be able to pay out of pocket for rental costs. In some cases, your insurance might cover the costs of your rental vehicle. In others, the at-fault driver might be liable for your rental car coverage. An experienced Arkansas car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and arrange the alternative transportation you need.
When Does the At-Fault Driver Pay for a Rental Car?
Arkansas is an at-fault state for traffic accidents. That means the person who caused the crash is responsible for the injured party’s expenses. As such, the at-fault driver’s insurer is responsible for covering the costs of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.
To secure a rental car through the at-fault driver’s insurance, you will need to file an insurance claim with their provider. In an ideal scenario, the insurer will immediately accept responsibility for the crash and agree to pay your rental car fees right away. However, negotiations are often necessary to secure the most favorable terms possible. Working with an experienced attorney can help make this process go more smoothly.
Keep in mind that the at-fault driver’s insurance will only cover a rental car for a “reasonable” length of time, which is usually defined as the amount of time it takes to repair your vehicle or until a settlement is reached if your car is a total loss.
When Will My Insurance Cover a Rental Car After an Accident?
If you have rental reimbursement coverage as part of your own insurance policy, you can use this coverage to pay for a rental car after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. This optional coverage is designed to help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses for a rental car. However, keep in mind that rental reimbursement coverage typically has a daily and total limit, so it’s essential to review your policy or speak with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage.
Will My Rental Vehicle Be Similar to My Own Car?
The rental car provided to you should be similar in size and function to your own vehicle. For example, if you typically drive a sedan, the rental car should also be a sedan. However, the make and model may differ from your own car. If you require a specific type of vehicle due to mobility issues or other needs, be sure to communicate this to the insurance company or your attorney to ensure that you receive an appropriate rental car.
How Old Do I Need to Be to Rent a Car in Arkansas?
Each state sets its own age limits for renting a car. Arkansas law requires drivers to be at least 18 years old to rent a vehicle.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help?
Securing a rental car after an accident can be challenging, especially when you’re also dealing with injuries and other complications. It can become even more stressful when the at-fault party’s insurer refuses to accept responsibility for the crash. Insurance companies are far more interested in protecting their profits than ensuring that injured individuals have access to the accommodations they require.
A skilled car accident attorney can help you communicate with insurance companies, gather necessary documentation, and ensure you receive the rental car coverage you need and deserve. Additionally, your attorney can help you pursue compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses relating to the accident.
Contact McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm Today
Life can feel overwhelming and confusing after you suffer injuries in a car accident. However, the experienced Fort Smith car accident attorneys at McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm believe that you deserve to focus entirely on your healing process while we take care of the necessary legal steps. When you choose to work with us, you will receive the individualized attention, support, and advocacy you and your case deserve. Call us today at (479) 783-0036 or contact us using our online form for a free consultation with one of our car accident lawyers in Fort Smith.
