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Based on Wyoming’s insurance rules, determining fault in a crash plays a central role in rental car reimbursement after a car crash in Cheyenne. If the other driver is responsible, their insurance should typically cover your rental expenses.
But things get complicated if the at-fault driver is uninsured, underinsured, or if there’s shared liability under Wyoming’s modified comparative fault rule.
This is where a Cheyenne car accident lawyer from Craig Swapp & Associates can assist in identifying the responsible party, dealing with insurers, and ensuring that you receive rental reimbursement along with other recoverable losses.
Wyoming follows an at-fault auto insurance system, which means the party responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for paying the resulting damages. This includes vehicle repair costs, medical expenses, and loss of use; commonly covered through rental car reimbursement.
If you’re not at fault in the crash, the liable driver’s insurance should cover the cost of a rental vehicle while your car is in the shop or totaled. This reimbursement is often included as part of the property damage settlement.
But there’s a catch: Wyoming also follows a modified comparative fault system.
Under this rule, you can recover damages only if you’re found to be less than 51% at fault. If you’re partially to blame, the amount you’re reimbursed may be reduced in proportion to your share of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, the rental reimbursement (and other damages) might be reduced by 20%.
If the at-fault driver’s insurance is slow to act or if liability is contested, you may need to pay for the rental car upfront and seek reimbursement later, often by filing a car insurance claim through your own insurer or directly pursuing the other party.
Wyoming does not require auto insurers to include rental reimbursement coverage in basic liability or comprehensive policies. This means drivers must opt in to carry rental reimbursement coverage on their policy. If you’re unsure whether you have this coverage, it’s worth checking your declarations page or calling your insurance agent.
Typical rental reimbursement policies in Wyoming include:
This optional coverage is often affordable – ranging from $2 to $15 per month depending on your insurer – but it becomes invaluable after a crash where liability is uncertain, or the at-fault driver is uninsured.
If you do not have rental reimbursement coverage and the other driver is uninsured, your options may be limited. While you can sue the at-fault party, it can be a time-consuming process, and if they have few assets, you might not recover much. This is where uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may help, but it typically doesn’t include rental reimbursement unless specifically added.
Rental cars can come with unexpected charges, especially when coverage is unclear or when insurance companies delay approvals.
Here are some common mistakes in renting cars that can lead to out-of-pocket expenses:
If you rent a car before fault is determined or before your insurer authorizes the rental, you may not be reimbursed. Always consult your insurance company first or wait for liability acceptance from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
Insurance only covers a reasonable replacement vehicle. Renting a luxury SUV when you typically drive a compact sedan can result in partial reimbursement or none at all.
Once your vehicle is repaired or deemed a total loss and you’re offered compensation, rental reimbursement stops. Delaying the return of the rental can result in additional charges that you’re personally responsible for.
Extras like GPS, roadside protection, or insurance waivers can add up. These are rarely reimbursed by insurers unless they’re deemed necessary.
Some drivers assume their own collision or comprehensive policy covers rental reimbursement automatically, but in Wyoming, it must be purchased separately. Don’t wait until after a crash to find out you lack this protection.
Avoiding these errors and having a car accident lawyer guide you through the rental process can help you avoid avoidable costs.
Proving fault, dealing with insurers, and securing rental reimbursement are often more complicated than they seem, especially when there are disputes over liability, delays in processing claims, or problems with insurance coverage.
A skilled car accident lawyer can help with:
These services are especially important if you suffered significant injuries or your vehicle was totaled. Working with experienced accident lawyers in Wyoming ensures that no form of compensation is overlooked or underpaid.
Being left without transportation after a car crash adds stress and inconvenience to an already difficult situation. But you may not have to cover rental car costs yourself. Whether it’s through your own policy’s rental reimbursement, the at-fault driver’s insurance, or legal action, there are paths to compensation.
If you’re unsure of your auto insurance coverage or your claim has been delayed or denied, our Cheyenne car accident lawyer at Craig Swapp & Associates can help clarify your options and fight for the recovery you deserve. From securing your rental costs to pursuing full compensation for all your damages, we’ll ensure your rights are protected and that you’re not left footing the bill for someone else’s mistake.
Call us at 307-522-1542 or send us a message about your case by answering our online form here to schedule your free consultation.
Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp