That’s exactly what happened to me last year—my truck got rear-ended and the rental they offered was a tiny sedan. I had to haul tools for work, so it was pretty useless. Insurance said their policy just covers “transportation,” not function. I tried pushing back, but got nowhere. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re paying extra for coverage. Honestly, I wish there was a way to specify up front what you actually use your vehicle for, but I guess they’re always looking to save a buck... even if it makes your life way harder.
- Totally get where you're coming from—I've seen this happen a lot.
- Most policies just say "comparable transportation," but that's super vague.
- Some carriers offer endorsements for work vehicles, but they're not always obvious or cheap.
- It's wild that you can pay extra and still end up with something that doesn't fit your needs... makes you wonder who writes these rules.
- Ever notice how they never ask what you actually use your truck for until it's too late?
It's wild that you can pay extra and still end up with something that doesn't fit your needs... makes you wonder who writes these rules.
Right? I swear, half the time it feels like they just pick random words out of a hat. I once got stuck with a tiny sedan as my "comparable" ride after my truck got sideswiped. Try hauling anything in that... not happening. It's like they assume everyone just commutes to an office and never actually uses their vehicle for, you know, stuff.
I once got stuck with a tiny sedan as my "comparable" ride after my truck got sideswiped. Try hauling anything in that... not happening.
That’s a classic issue with rental coverage. The “comparable” vehicle is usually based on what’s available, not what you actually need for your day-to-day. It’s frustrating, especially if you rely on your truck for work or hauling gear. Did your policy specify anything about replacement vehicle type, or was it just the standard language? Sometimes there are options to add endorsements for specific needs, but they’re easy to miss in the fine print.
The “comparable” vehicle is usually based on what’s available, not what you actually need for your day-to-day.
That’s the part that always gets me. Last time my car was in the shop, I got handed a base model hatchback... which, let’s just say, didn’t exactly scream “luxury sedan.” The heated seat was a sun-warmed patch on the upholstery. Not quite the same vibe.
I get why they do it—inventory and all—but it feels like there should be some way to make sure folks who actually *need* a truck or SUV for work aren’t stuck squeezing lumber into a compact. I did find out later my policy had an “upgrade” option for rentals, but you have to ask for it and, of course, pay more. Classic insurance move—bury the good stuff in the fine print.
If you rely on your ride for anything specific, might be worth calling your agent and seeing what they can actually promise if things go sideways. Otherwise, you’re at the mercy of whatever’s left on the rental lot... which is usually a sea of tiny sedans and minivans.
