A rental car accident can disrupt every aspect of your life, leaving you with physical injuries and emotional trauma. You may be forced to take time off work to recover and struggle with the extreme emotional impact of the collision, like nightmares or a fear of driving, for example.
Fortunately, your Cayce rental car accident team with Shelly Leeke Law Firm is available 24/7 to best meet your needs and help you regain control of your life. Our team has been serving the local community for more than 10 years.
We understand how difficult it can be to face the aftermath of a rental car accident. Our team is here to guide you through the process of holding the at-fault parties accountable and pursuing the compensation you deserve. Connect with your Cayce car accident lawyer from our firm today to request a free consultation.
Potentially Recoverable Damages in Rental Car Accident Claims
If you suffered injuries in a rental car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the losses you have experienced. These damages are typically divided into economic and non-economic categories, covering both financial and personal impacts.
With your Cayce personal injury lawyer from Shelly Leeke Law Firm by your side, you can be confident that we can help identify the types of damages you may be eligible to recover, such as:
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
In rare cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be appropriate. The idea behind punitive relief is to deter future instances of misconduct and further punish the liable party. Under S.C. Code Ann. § 15-32-530, the availability of punitive damages depends on the severity of the defendant’s alleged misconduct.
What to Do Following a Rental Car Accident in Cayce
If you suffered injuries in a rental car accident, knowing what steps to take next can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Every decision you make after the accident can affect your ability to recover compensation. Here are the most important steps to take after a rental car accident:
Prioritize Safety at the Scene
Your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident should be your first priority. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. If you or another passenger were injured in the accident, contacting a rental car accident lawyer can help you demand justice.
Collect Evidence
Gathering evidence at the scene is essential to building a strong claim. Ask witnesses for their contact information and statements about what they saw. When law enforcement arrives at the scene, request the officer’s name and badge number to follow up for a police report.
Seek Medical Attention
Seeking medical care after a rental car accident is critical, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal damage, may not present symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. A comprehensive medical evaluation not only protects you physically but also creates a documented record of your injuries.
Contact a Cayce Rental Car Accident Attorney for Help
Legal guidance can make a significant difference in how your claim is handled and the compensation you may recover. Your rental car accident lawyer in Cayce with Shelly Leeke Law Firm can evaluate the evidence, identify liable parties, and manage communication with the insurance companies. With our team handling the legal aspects of your case, you can spend more time focusing on your recovery.
Notify the Rental Car Company
After ensuring your safety and collecting evidence, it is essential to inform the rental car company about the accident. Most rental agreements require drivers to report accidents immediately to comply with the terms of the contract. This can also help you determine what role the rental car company’s insurance may play in covering your damages.
What to Expect from the Insurance Company After a Rental Car Accident
Understanding the nuances of insurance claims after a rental car accident can help you prepare for the process ahead. South Carolina is a fault-based insurance state, according to the South Carolina Department of Insurance, which means that the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering your damages. Under S.C. Code Ann. § 38-77-140, drivers must carry liability insurance.
What Rental Car Insurance Covers
Rental car insurance policies typically include several types of coverage, but the specifics depend on the agreement you signed with the rental car company. Collision damage waivers protect you from being held financially responsible for damage to the rental car itself. Liability insurance, often included in the base rental package, covers damage to other vehicles or injuries to other drivers.
What Happens After You File a Claim with the Insurer
After you file a claim, the insurance company will begin evaluating your case. This process often involves reviewing your evidence, determining liability, and assessing the extent of your damages. Below are the key steps to expect once your claim is submitted:
- Initial claim review – The insurer will start by confirming the details of your policy, including coverage limits and exclusions.
- Accident investigation – The insurance company will investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine liability.
- Settlement offers or claim denial – Once the investigation is complete, the insurer will decide whether to approve your claim and calculate a settlement amount.
What Happens if You Do Not Have Rental Car Insurance
If you opted out of rental car insurance, you may still have options for recovering compensation. Your personal auto insurance policy may include coverage for accidents involving rental cars, particularly if you have collision or comprehensive coverage.
Additionally, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply if the at-fault driver lacks a current policy or does not have adequate coverage.
Trust in a Trial-Proven Rental Car Accident Lawyer in Cayce for Help Today
If you suffered injuries in a rental car accident, the physical and emotional toll can be life-changing. You may be struggling to manage medical bills and lost wages, all while struggling to cope with the trauma of the collision. Your rental car accident attorney in Cayce from Shelly Leeke Law Firm is here to help you fight for your right to be made whole during this difficult time.
With extensive experience handling rental car accident claims, our firm is committed to securing the compensation you deserve. We will thoroughly investigate your case, do all we can to identify all liable parties, and help you pursue justice for the losses you have endured. Fill out our confidential contact form or call us today to schedule your 100% free consultation.
