How Do I Rent a Car After an Accident?
You have had an accident and your car is in the repair shop. No one was hurt and the car can be fixed, but now what? You are without transportation for at least a week, and you still have to get to work and get the kids to school. The answer? This seems to be the right time to rent a car, but is that as simple as it sounds?
If you have rental coverage under your own auto policy, it should not become a headache to rent a car after an auto accident. You should be able to get the rented vehicle in a day or two after you apply. If you do not know whether rental insurance is part of your policy, it is a good idea to call your insurance representative even before an accident occurs. If your policy does not include rental insurance, you may have a longer wait for a vehicle. The person who hit your car will notify his or her insurance company, which then will try to determine who is responsible for the accident. If the other person’s liability is established, it make take a week or longer for you to be given a rental car. If there is any dispute about liability, the whole process can take much longer than that.
When you pick up your rental car, you must present your current valid driver’s license. You must also show proof that your own policy covers both comprehensive and collision insurance. It is a good idea to take your policy with you to the rental dealer. If you do not have such coverage, the rental car dealership can supply it, but will charge you an extra fee. It is also a good idea to check the rental company’s rules on a driver’s age. Many rental companies have regulations against renting cars to adults younger than 25 years old.
You should be aware that many rental companies have other options than a straight rental. They may ask you to pay the rental fee when you pick up the car and then reimburse you when you turn it in. This can become expensive especially if you keep the car for more than a week. Talk to a rental company about payment before you are scheduled to pick up the vehicle.
Each car rental company may have its own rules that govern payment options for your rental and also how long you can keep the car. If your own car can be repaired, you will usually be allowed to keep the rental car while your own vehicle is being worked on and it is returned to you. If your car cannot be repaired, you should be able to keep the rental for five days after you receive a settlement offer.
If you have been in a car accident in the Jacksonville, Florida, area, contact Baggett Law and let us answer your questions. We have the experience and we can help. Contact us today.
