How long will insurance pay for a rental car after a total loss?

Why you can trust Insure.com

Quality Verified

At Insure.com, we are committed to providing the timely, accurate and expert information consumers need to make smart insurance decisions. All our content is written and reviewed by industry professionals and insurance experts. Our team carefully vets our rate data to ensure we only provide reliable and up-to-date insurance pricing. We follow the highest editorial standards. Our content is based solely on objective research and data gathering. We maintain strict editorial independence to ensure unbiased coverage of the insurance industry.

After your car is deemed a total loss and you’re waiting for the insurance settlement, rental car coverage can be a lifesaver. It helps you drive a rental car for your everyday needs and errands. However, the coverage has its limits.

Duration of rental car coverage

• During the evaluation period – The insurance company covers a rental car during the time it takes to assess your totaled car’s value and process the settlement offer. This can range from a few days to a couple of weeks.

• Settlement acceptance – The rental coverage usually stops once you accept the settlement. You might need to pay out-of-pocket for the rental if you need more time.

Check your policy and communicate

• Review your policy – Each policy is different, so understand the terms of your rental coverage. 

• Inform your adjuster – Stay in touch with your claims adjuster. Discuss this with them if you need more rental coverage due to delays.

Conclusion 

Understanding the rental car coverage after a total loss involves understanding the coverage window and effectively communicating with your insurance company. It’s crucial to check your policy details and stay connected with your insurer to ensure you have the coverage you need during this transitional period.