When a Car Accident Leaves You Stranded
A car accident will inevitably leave victims without transportation. For many, not having a vehicle to drive is much more than just an inconvenience. You should be covered for this annoying situation if the other driver was at fault for the accident. Read on and learn what you can do when you are stranded after a car accident.
Fixable or Totaled
Body shops (often the one your vehicle gets towed to after the accident), are qualified to determine what needs to be done to get your car back on the road again. Most of the time, your own insurance company will require that you get an estimate of the damage. If the vehicle is badly damaged, it may be deemed a total loss. That determination comes from an appraiser that visits your vehicle at the body shop. If the vehicle can be repaired, you can expect it to take several weeks for the repairs to be done.
However, if the vehicle is deemed a total loss, you may be paid quickly. The value of your vehicle is determined by the condition and value it would have been before it was wrecked. If you disagree with the payout or feel your car is a total loss, speak to a personal injury lawyer for help. Vehicle replacement parts can be difficult to find, and it may be better to take a total loss. That way, you can be paid and acquire another vehicle right away.
Rental Vehicles
Not everyone opts for rental car coverage when they get auto insurance. However, you should not have to go without a vehicle for an extended time regardless of the rental car situation. If the other driver caused the accident, it is their insurance that should be paying for your rental car. Speak to a personal injury lawyer if you are getting nowhere with the insurer. If you must pay for the rental car yourself, you are probably entitled to be reimbursed for the cost.
Along those lines, many accident victims use public transportation, ride-share options, or taxis to get around after an accident. If you do, you should provide your receipts to your personal injury lawyer since this expense should be reimbursed to you.
Victims of careless drivers should not be inconvenienced by a car accident. Keep up with your expenses and speak to a personal injury lawyer if you disagree with bad insurance decisions.
Share