Vehicle collisions can be catastrophic, even when they do not cause serious injury. Many people rely on their vehicles for work, child care, and other critical daily needs, which cannot be met when their car has been totaled or is being repaired. In the aftermath of an accident, many people become overwhelmed trying to figure out how they will be able to afford a new vehicle even temporarily, on top of all the other costs and stresses related to the accident. Luckily, there are options.
Getting a Rental Car Through Your Insurance
If you have insurance, it may cover a rental car in the event of an accident. The easiest way to find out is to call and ask. It is important to keep in mind that your insurance may have a daily cap on rental car costs, and you are responsible to pay out of pocket for the difference. If there is a cap, find out what it is to avoid causing more immediate financial stress. However, the cost of the rental car can likely be recouped later in a lawsuit, provided you were not the driver at fault.
If you have uninsured motorist coverage (even if you do not have additional insurance) it may also offer rental car coverage. Check with your provider to find out what is covered.
You may also have the option to pay out of pocket for a rental car and then seek reimbursement from your insurance company.
Getting a Rental Car Through the At-fault Driver’s Insurance
If the other driver’s insurance company has accepted liability for the accident, it will likely be a quick process to get them to pay for your rental car. However, it is fairly rare that an insurance company will readily accept liability. Insurance companies receive thousands of claims every week, and if they paid out all of them, they would go out of business. Insurance companies are therefore highly motivated to reject claims. Even valid claims are often rejected on their face the first time they are submitted in an effort to minimize liability. For this reason, having experienced legal representation on your side can make a world of difference. Insurance companies are knowledgeable and experienced in insurance, it is their job to know how to avoid paying out claims. In the wake of an accident, that can be hard to compete with and creates an imbalance of power between the victim and the insurance company. A Texas auto accident attorney can help correct this imbalance, advocate for the victim, and ensure that they get the insurance benefits to which they are entitled.
Suing to Recoup Rental Car Costs
If you were injured in a car accident and decide to bring a personal injury suit, you can also sue to recover the costs of property damage to your vehicle and the cost of having to rent a car, in addition to things like the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. Retaining a lawyer to represent you as soon as possible is your best defense against insurance denials as well as your best chance at getting a fair financial settlement.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been injured in a Texas car accident and are in need of zealous and committed legal representation, the Law Offices of Eric Ramos are here to help. Schedule a free consultation today to find out how we can help you receive the financial compensation that you deserve.