Dealing with injuries from a car accident is just one stressful aspect of a collision aftermath. If your car ends up seriously damaged or even totaled, you will likely worry about how to get to work or other destinations while you have your car fixed.
Many possible transportation alternatives could help you, though only some might be available depending on your situation.
Public transportation
Taking a bus, a tram or a subway can be a reliable and cost-effective way to commute while your car is in a repair shop. Check your local transit system for routes and schedules that align with your daily activities. Purchasing a monthly or weekly pass may also save you money in the long run.
Car rental
Depending on the extent of your car repairs and insurance coverage, renting a temporary vehicle might be a suitable option. Rental cars come in various sizes and types, so you can choose one that meets your needs and budget. However, this option may involve extra expenses, although you might cover the cost of renting a car through rental reimbursement if you have it on your auto insurance policy.
Rideshare
Rideshare services offer convenient rides on demand. You can quickly arrange a ride through their mobile apps, making it a flexible option for getting to work, running errands or attending appointments.
Still, rideshares are not cheap. According to a SmartCapitalMind analysis, a person could spend just $141 on public transportation but $2,632 on rideshare in a month to travel a hypothetical 15,000 miles in a year. However, this option should not be a problem if your budget allows for rideshares for a brief period.
Lower cost alternatives
If your budget is tight, you could reach out to friends, family or coworkers willing to let you carpool with them. If your daily destinations are reasonably close, consider biking. For short distances, walking is a simple and cost-free way to get around, provided any injuries you sustained in the accident do not make walking difficult.
Consider your transportation alternatives as early as possible. If you succeed in securing a damage claim from the insurer of the at-fault driver, you may receive compensation for the costs of your substitute transportation.