After a wreck, rental car costs are typically covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance. If you caused the accident, your own policy may cover the rental, but only if you carry rental reimbursement coverage. If you’re not sure what you’re entitled to, a Knoxville car accident attorney at Hotz & Associates can walk you through your options.
When does insurance cover a rental car after a wreck?
Tennessee is an at-fault state, which means the driver who caused the wreck is responsible for the other party’s losses, including rental car costs. As long as fault is reasonably clear, the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover your rental while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.
If you caused the accident, or if fault is still being worked out, your own auto insurance may step in, but only if you carry rental reimbursement coverage as part of your policy.
Does the at-fault driver’s insurance pay for a rental vehicle?
Yes. In Tennessee, the at-fault driver’s liability coverage pays for the other party’s damages, and rental car costs fall under that. The other driver’s insurer isn’t legally required to pay your rental costs up front, but most will once fault is established. You’ll need to file a claim to get the process started.
If there’s a delay, your own insurer may be able to advance rental coverage in the meantime.
What if you don’t have rental car coverage?
If you don’t carry rental reimbursement coverage and there’s no at-fault driver to cover the cost, you’ll need to pay for the rental yourself. It’s worth checking with your credit card issuer before assuming you’re stuck; some cards include rental coverage as a built-in benefit.
If you do end up paying out of pocket, hold on to every receipt. Those expenses may be recoverable as part of your insurance claim or a legal settlement, depending on how your case develops.
How long will insurance cover a rental car?
Coverage typically runs until your car is repaired or replaced, or until the claim is resolved. Most policies also set a daily dollar cap on rental reimbursement, and your policy documents will show what that limit is.
If you need the rental longer than your coverage allows, the extra costs may be recoverable as part of your overall claim. A car accident lawyer can help you understand what’s available in your situation.
What if the insurance company won’t cover the rental?
Insurance companies sometimes push back and might claim fault hasn’t been established yet, or dispute the daily rate your rental company charged. It can feel like you’re fighting for something you’re clearly owed.
If you’re getting resistance from the other driver’s insurer or even your own, talking to an attorney is worth doing. A car accident lawyer knows what Tennessee law entitles you to and can handle the negotiations so you don’t have to.
Talk to a Knoxville car accident attorney about your rental car costs
If you’ve been in a wreck that wasn’t your fault and you’re having trouble getting your rental costs covered, Hotz & Associates is here to help. Our attorneys can review your situation, explain your options, and help you pursue the compensation you’re owed, including rental car expenses and other damages.
Call us at (865) 582-0042 or contact us online for a free consultation.