Experiencing a car breakdown can be inconvenient and stressful, especially if you rely on your vehicle for daily transportation. Understanding whether your auto insurance covers the cost of a rental car during repairs can help alleviate some of that stress. At Rate Frog, we provide detailed information on whether Geico covers a rental car if your car breaks down and how to utilize this benefit.
Geico’s Rental Reimbursement Coverage
Geico offers rental reimbursement coverage as an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy. This coverage helps pay for the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered claim.
When Does Geico Cover a Rental Car?
1. Covered Claims
Rental reimbursement coverage applies when your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered claim under your comprehensive or collision coverage. Common covered claims include:
- Accidents: Damage resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object.
- Comprehensive Claims: Damage from non-collision events such as theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters.
2. Mechanical Breakdowns
Standard rental reimbursement coverage typically does not cover the cost of a rental car if your vehicle breaks down due to mechanical or electrical failures that are not related to a covered claim. However, if the breakdown is a result of an incident covered under your comprehensive or collision coverage, rental reimbursement may apply.
How to Utilize Geico’s Rental Reimbursement Coverage
1. Add Rental Reimbursement Coverage to Your Policy
To ensure you have rental reimbursement coverage, you need to add it to your Geico auto insurance policy. This coverage is not included by default and must be selected as an optional add-on. Here’s how to add it:
- Online: Log in to your Geico account on their website and navigate to the coverage options to add rental reimbursement.
- Phone: Call Geico’s customer service at 1-800-841-1587 to request the addition of rental reimbursement coverage.
- Local Agent: Speak with a local Geico agent to discuss your needs and add the coverage to your policy.
2. File a Claim
If your vehicle is damaged due to a covered claim and needs repairs, follow these steps to file a claim and use your rental reimbursement coverage:
- Assess the Damage: Determine the extent of the damage and whether it falls under a covered claim.
- File a Claim: Report the damage to Geico by calling 1-800-841-3000, filing a claim online, or using the Geico mobile app.
- Confirm Coverage: Confirm that your claim is covered under your comprehensive or collision coverage and that you have rental reimbursement coverage.
3. Arrange for a Rental Car
Geico partners with several rental car companies to provide rental vehicles at discounted rates. You can choose to rent from one of Geico’s preferred partners or select another rental company. Here’s how to arrange for a rental car:
- Preferred Partners: Geico may direct you to their preferred rental car companies, such as Enterprise or Hertz, where you can get the rental car at a discounted rate.
- Other Rental Companies: If you choose a different rental company, make sure to keep all receipts and documentation for reimbursement.
4. Submit Rental Receipts
Keep all rental car receipts and documentation. Geico will reimburse you for the rental car expenses up to your policy’s daily and total limits.
Coverage Limits and Costs
1. Daily and Total Limits
Rental reimbursement coverage comes with daily and total limits. These limits determine how much Geico will pay per day for a rental car and the maximum amount they will pay per claim. Common limits include:
- Daily Limit: Typically ranges from $25 to $50 per day.
- Total Limit: Usually ranges from $600 to $1,500 per claim.
2. Deductibles
Rental reimbursement coverage does not typically have a deductible. However, your comprehensive or collision coverage, which must be in place to utilize rental reimbursement, may have a deductible.
Benefits of Rental Reimbursement Coverage
1. Convenience
Having rental reimbursement coverage ensures that you have a vehicle to use while yours is being repaired, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
2. Cost Savings
This coverage helps cover the cost of a rental car, which can be expensive if paid out of pocket.
3. Peace of Mind
Knowing that you have rental reimbursement coverage can provide peace of mind, especially in the event of an accident or other covered claim.
Final Thoughts
Geico’s rental reimbursement coverage provides valuable support by covering the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered claim. However, it does not typically cover rental costs for mechanical breakdowns not related to a covered claim. By understanding your coverage and ensuring you have rental reimbursement added to your policy, you can manage repair-related inconveniences effectively. At Rate Frog, we help you explore your insurance options and find the best policies to suit your needs. Visit our platform today to compare quotes and secure the right coverage for your peace of mind!