If you suffered an injury in a rental car accident, you may feel confused about what to do next. Rental car accidents are complex, involving multiple parties and insurance policies that may (or may not) pay compensation for your injuries and associated losses. Here, the personal injury attorneys at Land Parker Welch LLC outline the critical steps to take after a rental car accident to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
Safety First: Seek Medical Attention
After a car rental accident, make your health and safety the priority. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. The adrenaline from the accident may disguise the full extent of your injuries, and seemingly minor injuries can worsen if not treated promptly.
Report the Accident to the Authorities
Report the accident to the local police. An officer will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and create an official accident report. This report will include important details, such as the vehicles and drivers involved, their identification information, factors contributing to the accident, and how and why it occurred. Later, request a copy of this report, which will be necessary for insurance purposes.
Contact the Rental Car Company
The rental company needs to know about the accident promptly. Follow their instructions for reporting procedures and provide them with the necessary details about the accident, but be careful what you share. It’s best to talk with an experienced car accident attorney before contacting the rental agency if you can.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your own auto insurance company about the accident, even if you purchased insurance coverage through the rental car company. Provide them with accurate information about the wreck. Be careful not to accept blame for the accident. Stick to the facts instead.
After a Rental Car Accident, Who Pays?
Determining who is liable for a rental car accident depends on several factors, including who is at fault and the involved parties’ insurance policies. Here are some potential sources of compensation after a rental car accident:
- Rental car insurance – The policy could cover your injuries and accident-related losses if you purchased rental car insurance.
- Personal auto insurance – Your auto insurance policy may cover accidents involving rental cars.
- Credit card coverage – Some credit cards offer rental car insurance coverage if you use the card to pay for the rental. This coverage may be secondary to your auto insurance but can still provide additional protection in an accident.
- Other parties’ insurance – If another driver or party was at fault for the accident, their insurance coverage might pay your damages. In such cases, you may need to file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance and negotiate for those expenses in your settlement.
Get Help from Our Car Accident Lawyers
Rental car accidents often leave victims uncertain about insurance coverage and liability. That’s why it is critical to consult an experienced car accident attorney. At Land Parker Welch LLC, we have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Let us help you pursue the money you need. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
