If your car sustains damage after a collision in Colorado, the at-fault driver usually pays for the rental. When another driver causes the crash, their insurance should cover your rental car costs. However, if you’re at fault or the other driver’s insurance doesn’t fully cover a rental, your insurance might help if you have rental reimbursement coverage.
What Should I Do If I Need a Rental Car After the Accident?
If you need a rental car after a Colorado car accident, you’ll need to take certain steps to prove why it’s necessary and get the insurance company to cover it. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started and back on the road as soon as possible:
- Determine who pays for the rental car – First, figure out who should pay for the rental car. If the other driver caused the accident, their insurance should cover your rental car costs. However, your own rental reimbursement policy might apply if the other driver’s insurance company won’t pay or drags out the claims process. In some cases, your insurance company might go after the other driver’s insurer to recoup the money it spends on your rental.
- File a claim with the responsible insurance company – Once you determine who will pay, file a claim with the liable insurer. Provide all necessary information about the crash and your rental car needs. The insurance company might require a repair estimate for the damage to your car or additional documentation related to the accident.
- Ask about rental policies – Ask the insurance company about their rental car policy. Insurance companies often have specific guidelines on how long you can keep a rental car and how much they will pay per day. Understanding these policies allows you to choose a vehicle within the insurance company’s budget and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
- Choose a rental car – Select a rental vehicle that meets your needs and falls within the insurance company’s allowed budget. Consider the size and type of car you need. If you have a large family or need a vehicle for work, make sure the rental can accommodate these needs. The rental car company can help you choose a car that matches your requirements.
- Coordinate pickup and return dates – Coordinate the pickup and return dates with the rental car company. Ensure these dates align with the repair timeline for your vehicle. Keep the company informed about any changes in your car’s repair status so they can adjust the rental period accordingly. This can prevent confusion and additional charges at the end of the rental period.
What Kind of Vehicle Is the Insurer Required to Rent for Me?
If the insurer approves a rental after a crash, they should pay for a vehicle like yours in size and function. For example, if you normally drive a small sedan, you should get a similarly sized rental car. However, if you have a large SUV for family transport or a pickup truck for work, you should receive a rental that meets these needs.
Insurance companies follow a “like for like” policy for rental vehicles to ensure you can continue your daily activities without major disruptions. It’s essential to communicate your specific needs to the insurance company, especially if you have special requirements like extra seating for family members or space for work equipment. This way, the company can match you with a rental vehicle that suits your lifestyle during the repair period.
How Long Can I Keep the Rental Vehicle?
The length of time you can keep a rental vehicle after an accident in Colorado depends on the insurance policy and the extent of the damage to your car. Generally, insurance companies allow you to keep the rental car until your vehicle repairs are complete or they’ve paid out the total loss claim. However, some policies set a maximum number of days or a dollar limit for rental car coverage. Always check with the insurance company to understand the rental coverage limits so you can plan accordingly and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
What If the At-Fault Driver’s Insurer Refuses to Provide a Rental?
If the liable driver’s insurer will not cover a rental car, don’t lose hope. You might still have some options. Start by contacting your own insurance company. If you have rental car insurance coverage, your insurer can cover the rental car costs and later seek repayment from the at-fault driver’s insurance. This means you won’t have to wait for the dispute to resolve before getting a rental car.
Consider consulting an experienced car accident lawyer as well. An attorney can help you understand your rights and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. Remember, you must act quickly and keep detailed records of all conversations and transactions related to the accident and rental car process. This documentation will support your case, whether in negotiations or legal action.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Colorado?
In Colorado, you have three years from the collision date to file a personal injury lawsuit against a liable party. If you wait too long and miss this deadline, you lose your chance to take legal action and seek compensation for your losses. This is why it is so important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a car accident.
A lawyer can handle your claim quickly and efficiently, completing all necessary paperwork and legal steps before the filing deadline. They understand the importance of acting swiftly and will work to protect your rights so you get the rental coverage and compensation you deserve without delay.
Contact a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a collision and need help getting a rental car and filing a personal injury claim, The Wilhite Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation. Our team will work quickly to handle your claim and get you the support you need.
