Your Guide to Getting a Rental Car After an Accident in Arkansas

• Virtually all states, including Arkansas, recognize the right of accident victims to receive a rental vehicle comparable to the one they lost.
• While the at-fault driver’s liability insurance is required to provide a comparable rental vehicle, they often will deny your claim for a comparable rental or simply choose the least expensive option, regardless of what you are entitled to.
• If you submit a rental car claim with your insurance company, they are only required to offer you a comparable vehicle up to the limits of your insurance policy.

• Insurance providers may have a rental car company they prefer to use. You aren’t required to use their preferred rental car company, but it can be easier than seeking reimbursement after choosing a different rental car company.
• You have a right to choose the rental car company that works best for you, especially if you’re paying with your insurance policy or out-of-pocket. If you have questions about choosing a rental car company after an accident, your Arkansas car accident lawyer can help.

Most major car insurance companies will rent cars for up to 30 days. In general, accident victims are allowed to keep their rental car until their own vehicle is repaired and returned to them. Accident victims need to be diligent in handling their repair work. Any delays in repairing your car could jeopardize your ability to keep your rental car through the process.

• If the vehicle is a total loss, you can keep your rental car until you settle with the insurance company.
• In Arkansas, an insurance provider considers any car with more than 75% damage a total loss. If you decide to keep your rental car after the insurance company has declared your vehicle to be a loss, then you will be on the hook for any additional rental car fees and expenses past that date.

• A car rental deposit is often required before you rent a vehicle. You may not need to pay this initial deposit if a direct bill has been set up through an insurance company. However, there are times when a small deposit is still required. The rental car company may refund this deposit when the rental is returned and billing is finalized with the insurance company.
• You do not need to purchase additional insurance if you have collision insurance. In addition, if you use your credit card to put down the deposit, your credit card may come with rental car insurance. Before you agree to the rental car company’s pricey insurance, ask your insurance company if you’re covered.
• This insurance carries over even when driving a rental car if you have adequate liability coverage. If you cause an injury accident while driving a rental car, your liability insurance will pay for the victim’s medical expenses and property damage. If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, your insurance policy will also cover damage to the rental car you’re driving.