How Do You Get a Car After a Car Accident? Rental & Replacement Options

Transportation Recovery Guide: First Steps to Get a Car After an Accident

How do you get a car after a car accident when your vehicle is in the shop or declared a total loss? Getting into a crash is stressful enough—but losing access to transportation afterward can make life even more complicated. Fortunately, there are several options available—some covered by insurance, and others you can explore on your own. Here’s how to navigate your next steps and get back on the road quickly.

Claim Process Basics: How to Assess Damage and Notify Insurance

Before you can figure out how to get a car after a car accident, you’ll need to determine the condition of your vehicle.

Step 1: Report the Accident

Notify your insurance company—and the at-fault driver’s insurer, if applicable—as soon as possible. They’ll assign an adjuster to evaluate your claim and inspect the damage.

Step 2: Vehicle Assessment

An adjuster will review the cost of repairs compared to the value of your car. If repairs exceed a certain percentage of your vehicle’s market value (typically 70–75%), it may be declared a total loss.

Step 3: Claim Decision

Once the insurer makes a decision, they will either:

• Approve repairs and direct you to a body shop, or
• Declare the car totaled and offer a payout based on fair market value

You can learn more about this process in our guide on how to make someone pay for car damage.

Short-Term Solutions: Rental Cars and Transportation After a Crash

If your car is undrivable or being repaired, you’ll likely need a temporary solution.

Rental Coverage Through Insurance

If your policy includes rental reimbursement, you may be eligible for a rental vehicle—typically capped at a daily rate (e.g., $30/day) for up to 30 days. If the other driver is at fault, their insurer may also cover your rental.

Loaner Vehicles from Repair Shops

Some repair facilities offer loaner cars while your vehicle is in the shop, especially if it’s being serviced under warranty.

Rideshare or Public Transit

If you lack rental coverage or need a short-term fix, rideshare apps or public transportation may fill the gap until your situation is resolved.

Total Loss Outcomes: What Happens If Your Car Is Declared Totaled

If your car is deemed a total loss, your insurance provider will issue a settlement based on its pre-accident value.

What That Looks Like:

• You’ll receive a payment directly or through your lender if you still owe on a car loan.
• You can use that payment as a down payment toward a new or used vehicle.
• If your insurance payout is less than the loan balance, gap insurance may cover the difference.

Replacement Vehicle Options: How to Get a Car After Insurance Payout

You can begin shopping for a replacement vehicle immediately after receiving your settlement. Use the funds to:

• Buy a new or used car outright
• Put money down on a loan or lease
• Trade in the damaged car (if allowed) and apply the value to your next purchase

Claim Efficiency Tips: How to Speed Up Your Transportation Recovery

• Respond to your insurer’s requests promptly
• Submit documentation like repair estimates and title details quickly
• Follow up regularly to avoid unnecessary delays
• Keep records of communication, receipts, and paperwork

For legal guidance if your settlement or process is delayed, consider working with a firm like Legal Brand Marketing.

Car Recovery Recap: Final Tips for Getting a Vehicle After an Accident

Whether you’re dealing with repairs or facing a total loss, getting a car after a car accident comes down to fast communication, understanding your insurance coverage, and knowing your rights. If your policy includes rental reimbursement, take advantage of it. If not, explore other options through the at-fault driver’s insurer, your repair shop, or out-of-pocket solutions.

The faster you act and the more organized your documentation, the sooner you’ll be driving again—without unnecessary delays or surprise expenses.

Legal Assistance Access: Secure a Rental or Replacement Vehicle with Help

Insurance delays, denied claims, or undervalued settlements can slow down your recovery. If you’re running into trouble getting a rental or replacement vehicle after an accident, Legal Brand Marketing connects car accident victims with experienced attorneys who can step in and advocate for you.

Don’t wait—get the legal support you need to move forward with confidence.