Rental car after the accident: billing a replacement car and loss-of-use correctly

If your car is not roadworthy after an accident that was not your fault, you can take a rental car for the repair or replacement period, or, if you do not need a replacement, claim loss-of-use compensation. What matters is keeping the costs within a reasonable frame.

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Your chances of getting your money back

You are entitled to reimbursement of the necessary rental car costs for the downtime, or alternatively to loss-of-use compensation, if you were dependent on the vehicle (§ 249 BGB).

Generally a comparable, often one class lower, vehicle class is reimbursed. Inflated 'accident-replacement tariffs' are not covered in full, compare with the normal tariff and use an affordable provider.

What you should do now

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1. Check the need
Do you really need a replacement vehicle? If yes, a rental car; if no, loss-of-use comes into consideration.
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2. Choose the right class
Rent a comparable, rather one class lower, vehicle group to avoid reductions.
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3. Mind the normal tariff
Avoid overpriced accident-replacement tariffs. Get a comparison offer if needed and document it.
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4. Bill it
Submit the rental contract/bill or the calculation of loss-of-use to the opposing insurer.

How to spot the scam

The rental company offers only an overpriced 'accident-replacement tariff'.
You rent a class significantly higher than your own car.
You barely use the rental car but bill long rental periods.

Frequently asked questions

Do I get a rental car paid for after the accident?

With an accident that was not your fault, yes, for the necessary downtime, provided you are dependent on a vehicle. Alternatively you can claim loss-of-use compensation (§ 249 BGB).

Which vehicle class is reimbursed?

Generally a group comparable to your vehicle, often one class lower. If you rent significantly higher-value, you risk reductions. Choose an appropriate rental car.

What about expensive accident-replacement tariffs?

Inflated accident-replacement tariffs are not reimbursed in full. Decisive is a necessary, market-standard tariff. Compare with the normal tariff and choose an affordable provider to avoid disputes.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.