You’re wondering what to do after a car accident. It’s stressful. It’s challenging. Your vehicle may be damaged and need extensive repairs, leaving you without transportation.
One common question that arises for Nevada drivers is whether your car insurance policy will cover the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after an accident.
The answer depends on a few key factors: what type of car insurance coverage you have, whether you’ve added rental car reimbursement, and the circumstances of the accident.
This article will examine how rental car reimbursement works and when you can get rental coverage through your auto insurance after a crash.
How Rental Car Reimbursement Coverage Works with Car Insurance in Nevada
Rental car reimbursement coverage is an add-on option you can purchase with many auto insurance policies in Nevada. This coverage helps pay for the cost of a rental car if your vehicle needs repairs due to a covered loss like an accident or breakdown.
With rental reimbursement coverage, your auto insurance company will pay for a rental car up to the limits specified in your policy, often $25-$30 per day. This can cover all or most of the daily cost of your rental car while your vehicle is out of commission.
Without rental coverage, you would have to pay out of pocket for the entire cost of a rental car or go without transportation during repairs. This additional insurance can save you hundreds of dollars if you need a rental.
Do You Need Rental Car Reimbursement Coverage in Nevada?
If you can afford to pay the full price of a rental car for multiple days if your vehicle needs repairs, rental reimbursement may not be crucial. But for many drivers, covering this expense entirely on their own would be a financial burden.
Factors to consider when deciding on rental coverage in Nevada include:
- How often do you drive and depend on your vehicle
- The average rental car rates in your area
- Your budget and ability to pay for a rental out-of-pocket
- Whether you have access to other transportation if your car is in the shop
For most drivers, rental reimbursement coverage provides useful protection and peace of mind in case repairs are needed.
How to Use Rental Car Reimbursement with Your Nevada Insurance Provider
If you have rental reimbursement coverage and need to rent a car due to an accident or breakdown, contact your insurance agent or company immediately to start a claim. Provide details about when and why your car needs repairs.
Your insurance will confirm coverage details like reimbursement limits, approved rental car companies, and claims procedures. Some insurers have partnerships with certain rental car companies and will handle booking a rental for you, while others reimburse you after the fact.
Be sure to follow all guidelines from your insurance provider to have your rental car fully covered and avoid denial of reimbursement claims. Keep receipts and rental records to submit for reimbursement. It’s strongly recommended to work with a car accident lawyer during this process if you were injured in the accident.
What If You Only Have Liability Insurance?
In Nevada, liability insurance is mandatory, while collision coverage is optional. If you only have basic liability insurance, your policy likely won’t include rental coverage.
However, if the accident was clearly the other driver’s fault, you may be able to claim rental reimbursement through their liability policy. Contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company to find out if they will cover your rental.
Should You Purchase the Rental Company’s Insurance?
The rental company will likely offer supplemental liability and damage waiver policies when renting a car after an accident.
In most cases, your auto insurance transfers liability and collision coverage to the rental. So unless your policy specifically excludes rentals, their extra insurance is probably unnecessary.
However, verifying this with your insurance provider before declining the rental company’s offerings is wise.
How Much Does Rental Car Reimbursement Insurance Cost?
Adding rental reimbursement coverage to your auto policy typically costs $1 to $5 monthly. This small investment can yield bigger savings after an accident than paying out of pocket for a rental.
For example, renting a car for 2 weeks can easily cost $500 or more. But with rental coverage, your insurance picks up the tab. Check with your provider for rates specific to your policy.
Work with a Nevada Car Accident Lawyer for Help with Rental Coverage
Navigating insurance claims and rental car reimbursement after an accident can be confusing. An attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
The experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyers at Benjamin Durham Law Firm are here to advise accident victims throughout the insurance claim and recovery process. They help you understand available coverage, file claims properly, and resolve any disputes with insurers.
Contact their team for a free case review and legal guidance.