Does at fault driver pay for rental car? (What Should You Know)

Did you get in a situation of an accident that was caused by someone else? If yes, it can be an exhausting and stressful situation. The car is damaged and needs immediate repairs, and now you do not have a mode of transportation. In this critical situation, thinking about who will pay the bill for your rental car is normal.

The very common question at that moment is, "Does a faulty driver pay for a rental car" to cover the cost of the damaged vehicle. In this situation, confirming all the details from the insurance company is advisable.

So, sit back and prepare yourself for clarity on this topic through this blog!

Understand The Liability In Car Accidents

Liability means that one person is legally responsible for the damages to the vehicle in an accident. Who is at fault in a car accident? It can be complex to find because it requires various data like police records, scene evidence, and witness accounts.

What Steps You Should Take After The Accident?

You should consider these steps to defend your rights following an accident. Below, we have briefly explained all the steps after getting in an accident.

Make sure All The Passengers Are Safe

Whether all the individuals are safe or not, it should be the priority to check. If any of the individual is injured, call for medical help immediately.

Capture The Accident Scene

Click pictures of the damaged vehicle. If possible, collect information like insurance, eyewitness accounts, and driver's details. Moreover, capturing the accident scene can be vital for determining who is at fault and proving liability.

Inform The Police About The Accident And File An Accident Report

Call the police and inform them about the accident. Even if you feel like it is a minor accident, informing the police can be crucial when dealing with potential legal proceedings and insurance companies.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company immediately about the accident. Give all the essential details and be specific about all the minor details.

Look For Legal Advice

If there are any disputes or complexities about liability or fault, consult a personal injury attorney. It can be beneficial for you. They can better explain your rights and explain the legal process to you.

Also Read: What happens if you crash a rental car without insurance? Who is liable?

Rental Insurance Coverage In Your Policy

Many rental car companies provide insurance coverage in their package. This insurance helps the person to pay for the rental car for any repairs and damages. You should review and understand your insurance policy terms and conditions. Maybe you will find some exclusions or limitations on the rental car coverage. That is why you must be aware of your coverage policy.

Asking for the At-Fault Driver's Insurance for Compensation

Suppose you are not at fault for the accident. You can ask for compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance company. For this, you must go through the usual process: file a claim with their insurance to recover the damages. It includes the cost of renting a car while your car is being repaired.

When you file a claim, it is important to note down all the expenses related to the rental car. You have to record additional charges, rental fees, and other incurred costs. With the help of the documentation, you can have your claim, and it makes sure you get appropriate compensation.

Your Own Insurance Company

Sometimes, the at-fault driver's insurance company may deny or not respond to your claim. Suppose you are facing this situation and may need help from the insurance company. You can ask your insurer for compensation if your policy covers rental cars. If you get into a situation where the driver's insurance is denied or is not responsive to your claim, getting help from your insurance company is important. Review the policy. It will help you determine the terms and conditions.

You Can Try Legal Options

Dealing with insurance providers can be a challenging process. Legal advice is a good idea if getting rental car coverage is challenging.

Before you make any of the decisions, consult an attorney first. They can represent your negotiations, assess your case, and provide valuable advice.

Note: Before you make any decision after a car accident, it is important to have legal guidance.

Other Options You Have

Victims also have other options to seek compensation when facing this situation. For example, you have a coverage plan from your insurance policy, such as underinsured motorist or uninsured coverage. It is a kind of coverage that can help you cover the rental cost in situations where the driver lacks adequate insurance.

In this scenario, you must consult an attorney when you face complex cases that include uninsured or underinsured drivers. They very well know about the legal complexities and help you explain all about your rights and options.

Conclusion

Getting knowledge about the liability in a car accident is important. It provides you with the surety about who is responsible for paying for the damages.

Although at-fault driver's insurance will pay for the expenses, you must follow certain instructions after an accident to preserve your rights. You can do this by capturing the accident scene, informing the police and the insurance company, and taking legal advice if needed. With this, you can make sure you are receiving appropriate compensation.

Hopefully, all your doubts about "Does a faulty driver pay for a rental car?" are clear with the above information.