You can get a rental car through insurance if you have rental reimbursement coverage (often called "rental car coverage") added to your auto policy. This is not automatically included in standard policies like liability or collision. The process involves filing a claim for a covered incident, getting approval from your adjuster, and then following their specific instructions for renting a vehicle. The key is understanding your policy's daily and total limits before you rent.
The first step is always to contact your insurance company to report the claim. Whether the accident was your fault or not, your claims adjuster will determine if the loss is covered. If you have rental reimbursement and the claim is approved, the adjuster will authorize a rental vehicle. They will explain your coverage limits, which are crucial. For example, a common limit is $30 per day/$900 total. Renting a car that costs $45 per day would leave you paying the $15 difference out-of-pocket.
Here’s a typical breakdown of the process:
| Step | Action | Key Considerations |
|---|
| 1. Report the Claim | Contact your insurer immediately after the accident. | Have your policy number and claim details ready. |
| 2. Verify Coverage | Ask the adjuster to confirm your rental reimbursement limits. | Common limits are $30/day, $40/day, or $50/day. |
| 3. Get Authorization | Receive confirmation that a rental is approved. | The approval may specify the rental duration (e.g., until your car is repaired). |
| 4. Choose a Rental Company | Use an insurer-preferred vendor or a company of your choice. | Preferred vendors often have direct billing arrangements with insurers. |
| 5. Paying for the Rental | You may pay upfront and get reimbursed, or the insurer may pay directly. | Direct billing is more convenient but requires using a preferred partner. |
If the accident was another driver's fault, their property damage liability insurance should cover your rental car. Your own insurer can often handle the claim with the other party's insurance on your behalf through a process called subrogation, which might get your deductible refunded.
Always review your policy declarations page to see if you have this coverage and what your specific limits are. It's an inexpensive add-on that provides significant peace of mind.
