Guide to Getting a Rental Car After Your Provo, Utah Car Accident

Step 1: Decide Which Insurance Company to Use for Your Rental Car

When you’re in an accident, you need to determine which insurance company to approach for a rental car:

Option A: The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance

  • Pros: They often agree to provide a rental car while investigating the claim.
  • Cons: They have no legal obligation to provide a rental car immediately. You may have to cover costs upfront and seek reimbursement later.

Option B: Your Own Insurance Company

  • Pros: If your policy includes rental car coverage, you can rely on it right away.
  • Cons: You must pay a deductible, and coverage limits may not fully cover the car type you need.

Step 2: Asking the At-Fault Insurance Company for a Rental Car

You can directly request a rental car from the at-fault driver’s insurer. While they aren’t legally required to provide one, they often do to avoid complications later.

  • Reimbursement Option: Pay for a rental car yourself and seek reimbursement during the property damage settlement. Be cautious—insurance companies may only reimburse “reasonable” rental car choices.

Step 3: Using Your Own Insurance Company for a Rental Car

If your policy includes rental car coverage, your declarations page will detail:

  • Daily Allowance: Example: $35 per day.
  • Maximum Coverage: Example: $1,500 per accident.
  • Common Issues:
    • Deductibles: You may need to pay upfront.
    • Vehicle Type: Coverage may not fully cover the cost of a vehicle comparable to your own.

Common Challenges in Getting a Rental Car After a Provo, UT Car Accident

1. Delays in Investigation

Insurance companies typically investigate the accident before providing a rental car. This can take time due to:

  • Pending police reports.
  • Delays in witness interviews.
  • Lack of timely car towing or field appraiser evaluations.

Solution: Be proactive in following up with your adjuster and ensure all necessary documents are submitted promptly.

2. Disputes Over the Type of Rental Car

Rental car disputes often arise when the type of car you need exceeds policy limits.

Examples:

  • Large Vehicle Need: If you usually drive a 12-passenger van but the insurance only covers a sedan, you’ll need to cover the difference.
  • Luxury Cars: If you drive a Tesla but the insurer only approves a compact rental, you can pay the additional cost and seek reimbursement from the at-fault insurer.

3. Rental Car Start and Return Dates

Timing is another common frustration:

  • Adjusters need time to assign the claim and approve the rental.
  • If gaps occur, you may need to rely on rideshare services or public transportation temporarily.

Pro Tip: Keep receipts for rideshare or transit expenses to request reimbursement later.

4. Keeping Your Attorney Updated

While property damage claims are typically handled by the client, it’s essential to:

  • Inform your attorney of your progress.
  • Share any settlement offers for review to ensure they are fair and reasonable.

What to Expect From Your Utah Car Accident Attorney

Attorney Jake Gunter takes a hands-off approach to property damage claims, letting clients handle the details. However, he monitors the case and is available to assist with issues as they arise.

Contact Attorney Jake Gunter for Help

If you’ve been in a car accident in Provo, Utah, let Attorney Jake Gunter help you navigate the process and maximize your compensation.

Call/Text: (801) 373-6345
Free Consultation – We Come to You

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Do I have a right to a rental car after an accident?
    Not automatically. The at-fault driver’s insurer may offer a rental car as a courtesy, but your own insurance provides rental coverage only if included in your policy.
  2. What if the rental car provided doesn’t meet my needs?
    You can pay the difference for a larger or luxury vehicle and seek reimbursement, though approval is not guaranteed.
  3. How long does it take to get a rental car?
    It can take several days to weeks, depending on the investigation timeline and adjuster availability.
  4. What if I pay out-of-pocket for a rental car?
    Keep receipts and choose a “reasonable” rental. You can seek reimbursement later during the property damage settlement.
  5. Does my insurance cover rental car costs?
    Only if your policy includes rental car coverage. Limits are typically daily allowances like $35/day with a maximum cap.
  6. Should I inform my attorney about property damage claims?
    Yes, keep your attorney updated to ensure the settlement process aligns with your overall case strategy.