You may need a rental car if you cannot drive your car after an accident. And you might be concerned about what you must pay out of pocket. You may wonder, “Who pays for the rental car after a car accident?” Under South Carolina law, the insurance company of the driver at fault for the accident is responsible for paying the rental costs. However, because your insurance claim could be unfairly denied, you need the car accident lawyers in Georgetown at Evans Moore, LLC.
How Do I Get a Rental Car After a South Carolina Car Accident?
If you were in a car accident, start the process of getting a rental car by following these steps:
- Call your insurance company – After the accident, you should report it to your insurance company regardless of who is at fault. Be sure to provide your company with the at-fault driver’s name and insurance information so your company can initiate its investigation.
- Document the damage to your vehicle – Take pictures of your vehicle’s damage and itemize any personal property damaged in the accident. Your insurance company will likely instruct you to request an estimate from a repair shop.
- Consult a Georgetown car accident attorney – A car accident lawyer from Evans Moore, LLC will assist you in all aspects of your car accident claim, including reviewing your auto insurance policy to determine whether you have rental car coverage. They will also explore whether the other driver’s insurance company may be responsible for paying your rental car costs by investigating the circumstances of the accident to determine whether they are at fault and responsible for paying for a rental car.
- Choose a rental car – Select a vehicle that fits your needs and is within your coverage limits. Generally, insurance will pay for a car of comparable make and model to the one it is temporarily replacing. Save any related paperwork, including the rental agreement, for your claim.
Who Pays for The Rental Car When My Car Is Being Repaired?
If your car must be repaired, you may ask, “Will insurance cover rental car after accident?” Or, “Does at fault driver pay for rental car?” If the evidence shows that the other driver is at fault for the accident, South Carolina law provides that the at-fault driver’s insurance company is “required by law to reimburse your loss of use for what is reasonable and necessary.” For a total loss, many insurance companies pay for the rental until a settlement is offered or reimburse you in the settlement.
What Happens If the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Won’t Pay for the Rental Car?
If the other driver caused the accident, their insurance company should pay the rental costs. If the company denies the claim or argues that their insured was not responsible, you may still have options for renting a car.
South Carolina law does not require residents to carry car rental insurance. Instead, your company will likely offer it in addition to your required coverage. If you have rental insurance, you can file a claim with your company to utilize that coverage if the other driver’s insurance company will not pay for it. Your insurance company will likely pursue reimbursement from the at-fault driver for the money they had to pay under your policy.
How Do I Know If My Policy Includes Rental Insurance?
At Evans Moore, LLC, we understand that Insurance policies can be difficult to read and interpret. An attorney from our firm will review your policy to determine whether it covers the cost of a rental car. We will explain the relevant provisions of your policy and assist you in communicating and negotiating with your insurance company concerning rental car coverage.
What Type of Rental Vehicle Can I Get After the Accident?
Car insurance companies provide specific requirements for car rental insurance coverage. Your car accident attorney will review your insurance policy and advise you on the maximum the company will pay. Some insurance companies have business relationships with rental car companies that may offer you a better rate. If your policy covers a rental car and you comply with your policy’s requirements, you should not have to pay out of pocket for your rental car. If the at-fault driver’s insurer provides you with the requirements for a rental car, you may not have to pay for it yourself.
Contact a Georgetown Car Accident Lawyer
At Evans Moore, LLC, we want to help you pursue the financial compensation you deserve and secure the rental car you may need after an accident that was not your fault. Call us today at (843) 995-5000 or contact us online to speak to an experienced Georgetown car accident lawyer for a free consultation.