What is Rental Reimbursement Coverage (And Do You Really Need It)?

As you look through your MA auto policy documents, you might have seen a coverage called Rental Reimbursement or Substitute Transportation.  What is this? And do you REALLY need it?

Basically, Rental Reimbursement/Substitute Transportation coverage is there to help you when your car is unavailable due to a covered claim.  Let's say that you had a fender bender and your car is in the shop for a few days getting a new bumper.  Or, after a major storm, you have hail damage that needs to be repaired.  While the car is being fixed, what are you going to drive??

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That's where Rental coverage comes into play.  With this coverage, the insurance company will pay a certain amount per day (based on the limit of coverage you've chosen) towards a rental car.  That way, you're not inconvenienced while the repairs are being made. We HIGHLY recommend that you have this coverage.  The coverage is optional, and more often than not, we find customers disappointed that they never purchased it...and then at the time of loss, they have no backup vehicle.  If the accident was NOT your fault, you can file a rental claim with the other party's insurance company however it's usually a very long process.  It's always easier if you have the coverage available on your own policy.  

There are a few situations though where the extra cost of the Rental Reimbursement coverage may not be worth it:   If you own multiple vehicles and can easily drive another car while your's is being repaired, or if you could stay home and/or getting back and forth to work is not an issue.

If you are not sure what's best for you, contact us to discuss exactly how much the coverage will cost and the different limits available.  We look forward to helping you choose the right insurance coverage!

Thomas E. Sears Insurance Agency, Inc.