If you have been involved in an accident with a rental vehicle, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Whether you were the driver or a passenger, knowing what to do in the aftermath can protect your interests and help you navigate the process effectively. Your rights may vary depending on the insurance coverage you have, the rental agreement, and the circumstances of the accident. In many cases, rental companies and insurance providers will have specific policies, but you still have the right to seek compensation for damages, injuries, and losses.
If you have been in an accident with a rental vehicle, do not wait- contact a trusted car accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the claims process. Protecting your interests and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve is essential. Reach out today to discuss your case and get your legal support.
How Common Are Car Accidents in America?
Unfortunately, car accidents remain an issue nationwide. Car accidents are among the most common causes of death in the United States. According to statistics published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, car accidents are this deadly:
- Car crashes are the leading cause of death in the United States
- In a recent year, deaths from car crashes cost the United States economy nearly $500 billion
- In the same year, more than 40,000 people died in a car accident across the country
- And, there were more than 2 million emergency room visits because of car accidents
Why Do Car Accidents Happen?
Car accidents happen for a variety of reasons. Generally, car accidents happen when someone is negligent. Like other types of car accidents, car accidents in rental cars can happen because:
Distracted driving
Distracted driving happens when the driver takes their mind off driving and fails to pay attention to the road. Distractions, including texting, daydreaming, or speaking to passengers, for example, can cause serious accidents.
Impaired driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents nationwide. Alcohol, drugs, and even prescription medication can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, all causing an accident.
Inexperienced or older drivers
Teenage drivers or drivers over the age of 65 might be in danger of causing an accident due to limited experience or reduced ability to drive.
Speeding
Speeding is another major cause of traffic accidents in the United States. Speeding accidents are serious and can be deadly. A speeding vehicle can lead to serious injuries for the victim.
Reckless or aggressive driving
Tailgating, weaving between lanes, and road rage all increase the odds of a traffic accident. Reckless and aggressive driving can also lead to serious injuries.
Fatigued driving
Driving while fatigued can cause an accident in a millisecond. Drowsy drivers often experience microsleeps. Microsleeps happen when someone falls asleep for just a moment. In the second that the driver closes their eyes, an accident can happen.
Running red lights or failing to yield
Failure to run a red light, yield to traffic or pedestrians, or obey other traffic instructions can lead to an accident. Ignoring traffic signals and signs often leads to serious injury-causing accidents.
Poor weather conditions
The weather can easily cause an accident. For example, if drivers fail to adjust their speed for rain showers or snowfall, they might lose control of their vehicle and cause a severe accident.
Road hazards
Potholes, construction zones, and debris on the road can cause drivers to swerve or lose control.
Low visibility
Driving at night or in conditions like heavy fog can make seeing other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles harder.
Defective parts
Defective vehicle parts can cause an accident. Investigating the cause of the accident can reveal whether the rental vehicle was defective. If a defective vehicle part caused the crash, a car accident attorney can help you get what you deserve from part manufacturers.
Mechanical failures
Brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering system issues can lead to loss of vehicle control. Discuss what might have happened to cause the accident with your attorney. An experienced car accident attorney will help you understand what rights you have after a crash and who is responsible for paying for your damages.
Poor maintenance
Worn-out brakes, bald tires, or broken headlights can increase the risk of accidents. The rental company might share liability if one of their vehicles was poorly maintained and it led to a traffic accident.
Unique Challenges After Getting Into a Car Accident in a Rental Car
There are some unique legal challenges that victims might face after getting into an accident with a rental car, especially since they do not own the car. Here are some of the most common challenges renters might face:
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
A car accident case might come with significant out-of-pocket expenses. The cost you might bear depends heavily on the facts of the accident. Examples of costs associated with rental car accidents can include towing fees, temporary rental costs if you need a replacement vehicle, and possible medical expenses that are not immediately covered.
Time and Hassle
Dealing with a rental car after an accident can take much time. You might need to handle communication with your insurance company and the insurance company that represents the rental company. Dealing with the insurance company and other aspects of your case can be time-consuming, especially if the accident significantly damages the vehicle.
Issues of Liability and Fault
A rental car can add a layer of complexity to your accident case. Rental and insurance companies will work hard to deny liability, especially if multiple parties are involved in the accident. If you do not have adequate insurance coverage, you can end up financially liable for causing the accident. An attorney can help sort through the accident facts and determine who is liable for paying for your damages and injuries.
Rental Agreement Complications
The terms of the rental agreement can be complex and might leave you confused about your rights after an accident. If you have been in an accident while driving a rental car, you need to speak to a car accident attorney and review the agreement with them. Your car accident lawyer will help you understand your rights and determine what compensation you might be owed based on the terms of the agreement.
Insurance Confusion
Navigating the insurance claims process can be complicated normally. When the accident involves a rental car, things can get even trickier. If you have your car insurance, it may or may not cover rental cars, and the level of coverage may vary. You may also face issues with secondary coverage, where your personal insurance covers the costs only after the rental company’s insurance is exhausted.
What Rights Do I Have After An Accident With a Rental Vehicle?
After an accident involving a rental vehicle, you have several rights and options depending on the circumstances and the type of insurance coverage you have. Here is a breakdown of what you should have:
Right To Notify Authorities
You have the right to notify the authorities after getting into an accident with a rental car. After an accident, you have the right to contact the police to file a report if there is property damage or injury. It is especially important for legal and insurance purposes.
Right To Be Fully Informed
You have the right to clear, transparent communications from the rental company and insurance providers about your responsibilities and coverage. Make sure you understand the terms of the rental agreement and the insurance coverage before renting.
Right To Legal Action
If there is a dispute regarding liability or insurance coverage, you have the right to pursue legal action to recover costs for damages and injuries. It might involve filing a claim with the rental company’s insurance, your own car insurance, or taking the matter to court if necessary.
Right To Compensation for Injuries and Damages
If you suffered an injury in the accident, you have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost earnings through your insurance or the at-fault party’s insurance. If the accident is caused by the other driver, their insurance should cover the costs of your injuries and damages. If the at-fault driver does not have insurance or is underinsured, your insurance policy may offer coverage, depending on the terms.
Right To Insurance Coverage
If you have personal car insurance, your policy may cover the rental vehicle in the event of an accident, but you should check with your provider to confirm. You were typically covered under that plan if you purchased the rental company’s insurance. It can include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. If you declined rental insurance, you may be personally responsible for damages, but your car insurance might still cover the costs.
How Can An Attorney Help Me After Getting Into An Accident With a Rental Car?
Given the complex nature of an accident involving a rental car, you will need an attorney’s help after getting into a car accident with a rental car. An attorney is a vital resource, especially when handling the complexities of insurance claims, liability, and potential legal disputes. Here is how an attorney can help:
Handling The Claims Process
An attorney can guide you through the process of finalizing your claim. A lawyer can reduce the stress of an accident by communicating directly with the insurance company on your behalf. This can ensure that your claim is processed fairly and promptly.
If the rental company or your insurance offers a settlement that seems too low or does not fully cover your damages, an attorney can negotiate on your behalf to get you a fair settlement.
Protecting You from Excessive Charges
An attorney can help protect you from excessive charges. Rental companies sometimes charge for things like “loss of use” or administrative fees. An attorney can review your rental agreement and challenge these fees if they seem excessively unjustified.
Handling Personal Injury Claims
You might have the right to pursue a personal injury claim after a rental car accident. Asserting your rights after an accident can be challenging to do on your own. An attorney can advocate to ensure you get full and fair compensation after an accident. An attorney can help collect the cost of medical bills, lost earnings, and any long-term care needs that are properly accounted for and compensated. An attorney can also liaise with healthcare providers and insurance companies to make sure that all injury-related expenses are covered.
Provide You Peace of Mind
An attorney can give you the peace of mind you need to recover after an accident fully. Dealing with an accident can be overwhelming, and having an attorney handle the legal and insurance aspects of the situation allows you to focus on recovery or other important matters.
Your car accident lawyer will also give you peace of mind by providing updates and ensuring you understand your rights.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney Today
After an accident with a rental vehicle, protecting your rights is vital to ensuring you are not left facing the financial and legal consequences on your own. Whether it is dealing with insurance claims, understanding the terms of your agreement, or securing compensation for damages or injuries, knowing your rights can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
By contacting a personal injury attorney familiar with rental car agreements as soon as possible, you are taking a proactive stance in protecting yourself. A seasoned attorney will answer any questions you may have, and ensure that your best interests are represented.
A skilled attorney is standing by to help protect your rights and guide you through the steps you need to take. If you have been in an accident, take action now to secure the legal support you need. Your rights matter, and you deserve a trusted car accident attorney by your side every step of the way. Reach out today to start protecting your future!