Disclaimer: This article provides general information on Washington state law and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney to address your specific situation.
Detailed Answer
After a car crash in Washington, many auto insurance policies include rental reimbursement or “loss of use” coverage. This pays for a rental vehicle while your car is in the repair shop. Once your insurer’s rental coverage ends, you can explore other transportation methods or pursue additional compensation under state law.
1. Ask Your Insurer for an Extension or Cash Settlement
Review your policy’s declarations page to see if you purchased rental reimbursement. If your approved rental days run out before repairs finish, call your claims adjuster and request an extension. Some insurers allow additional days when repairs drag on. Others offer a cash settlement based on actual expenses. Under Washington’s mandatory liability requirements (RCW 48.22.030), the at-fault party’s insurer must cover reasonable transportation costs as “special damages.”
2. Public Transit and Rideshare Services
If insurer assistance stops, consider public transportation. Many Washington cities have reliable bus, rail, and ferry systems. Use an ORCA card to pay fares in the Puget Sound region. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft also offer quick point-to-point service. Track your receipts for possible reimbursement through your insurer or legal claim.
3. Courtesy Cars from Repair Shops
Some repair shops and dealerships provide a loaner vehicle or “courtesy car” while they service your insurance-repaired vehicle. Confirm availability and fees before dropping off your car. Get the arrangement in writing to avoid unexpected daily charges.
4. Credit Card and Travel Perks
Check if your credit card offers car rental insurance or travel credits. Many premium cards include secondary rental collision coverage. You may also redeem airline or hotel points for shuttle services or ride credits. Always verify coverage limits and file a claim with your card issuer if you pay out of pocket.
5. Borrowing or Carpooling
Ask friends, family, or coworkers if you can temporarily borrow a vehicle. Carpool with others who commute the same route. This option often costs less than a daily rental or rideshare fees and fits into a busy schedule.
6. Pursuing Compensation from the At-Fault Driver
If another driver caused your crash, you can file a third-party liability claim for transportation expenses as “special damages.” Gather estimates or receipts for your alternative transportation. Under RCW 48.22.005 (definitions) and RCW 48.22.040 (UM/UIM), you may also include transportation losses in your uninsured/underinsured motorist claim if the at-fault driver lacks adequate coverage.
Helpful Hints
- Keep all rental, rideshare, and transit receipts in one folder.
- Document every call or email with your insurer and repair shop.
- Check your policy for daily and total rental limits.
- Look into regional transit passes or discounted multi-day tickets.
- Explore courtesy car programs before committing to a paid rental.
- Be prepared to negotiate a cash settlement for transportation costs.