How to Choose the Right Rental Car After an Accident

Picking the Perfect Rental Car Post-Accident

If your car is in the shop after a collision, chances are you’ll need a rental vehicle to keep your life moving. But how do you choose the right one? At Victory Auto Body and Paint in Burbank, we help our customers every day with this exact situation. Here’s what to consider when picking a rental after an accident.

1. Match Your Lifestyle
Think about how you normally use your car. Do you need room for kids, groceries, or work equipment? Try to rent something similar in size and function to your regular vehicle. If you drive a small sedan, an economy rental is a good fit. If you have an SUV, don’t settle for something too small to handle your daily needs.

2. Know Your Insurance Coverage
Before you head to the rental counter, check your insurance policy to see if rental reimbursement is included. This coverage typically pays a daily rate up to a certain limit. We can also help you understand what your insurance allows and recommend local rental agencies that work directly with us.

3. Ask for Direct Billing
Some rental companies will bill your insurance provider directly, saving you from paying out of pocket and waiting for reimbursement. At Victory, we can connect you with rental partners who offer direct billing for added convenience.

4. Look Into Temporary Upgrades
While your car is being repaired, this might be your chance to try something new—like a hybrid for better gas mileage or a newer model with more features. You can usually pay a small difference out-of-pocket if the upgrade exceeds your coverage allowance.

5. Keep Track of Rental Duration
Rental coverage is often limited to a set number of days. Stay in touch with your repair shop to get updates on the repair timeline and avoid additional charges if the repair takes longer than expected. At Victory, we keep you informed so there are no surprises.

Final Thoughts
Choosing the right rental car can make the repair process much more manageable. Whether you need something basic or a little more luxurious, our team at Victory Auto Body and Paint in Burbank is here to help you find the perfect rental while we restore your vehicle.