When asking, “What happens if you crash a rental car,” it is important to understand the complicated legal and insurance matters involved.
After seeking medical attention, it is essential to exchange information with the other motorists, gather pertinent evidence at the scene, and contact a North Charleston rental car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Steps to Take Following a Rental Car Accident
While the specifics may vary slightly, the immediate actions following crashing a rental car largely mirror those taken after any other motor vehicle collision. Start with contacting emergency services so the reporting officers can make a car accident police report, which will serve as critical documentation for your insurance claim and any potential legal action. Your first priority should be stabilizing any injuries and getting checked out by a medical professional.
After injuries, the next most important thing is recording details and exchanging information. Gather evidence by taking pictures of the surroundings, the vehicles, any road conditions, skid marks, and nearby signs or signals. Obtain the driver’s license number, insurance information, and contact details.
Details are key, so any information you can make a record of could possibly help you later. Note the date, exact times, weather conditions, traffic flow, and the make, model, and license plate numbers of other vehicles involved. It is important to protect yourself legally and to be mindful of what to say to the other driver after a car accident.
Rental Car Insurance in South Carolina
While the fundamental principles of car accidents remain the same regardless of the vehicle involved, rental car accidents introduce unique insurance complexities. Rental car insurance coverage can differ significantly from standard automobile insurance. Here are some coverage options you may have:
- Rental Car Company Insurance: Rental car companies often offer different insurance options, including collision damage waiver (CDW), liability coverage, personal accident insurance, and personal effects coverage. Carefully review the terms and conditions of these policies, as they can vary significantly.
- Personal Auto Insurance: Your personal auto policy may or may not extend coverage to rental vehicles. Carefully review your policy documents to understand your coverage limits and any applicable exclusions.
- Credit Card Insurance: Some credit cards offer rental car insurance as a benefit, but coverage may be limited, and personal injury claims may not be included. Additionally, credit card insurance often requires you to pay for damages out-of-pocket and then seek reimbursement from the insurance company.
Rental car agreements typically hold the renter liable for any damage to the vehicle, even if the accident was not their fault. Determining fault and navigating the claims process can be time-consuming and challenging. The situation can become even more complex if you were involved in an accident while driving a rental car in South Carolina but are not a state resident.
Prioritize Involving Legal Counsel After
If you crash a rental car, your first call should be to an experienced car accident attorney who understands the complexities rental cars can add to the situation. While it is important to report the accident to your insurance company and the rental car company, calling your lawyer first will help protect your rights. An attorney will work to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Insurance adjusters are trained to gather information that can be used to minimize or deny your claim. By speaking with an attorney first, you can avoid inadvertently making statements that could be misconstrued or used against you in the claims process. You want to avoid accidentally making statements that could jeopardize your claim and cost you money down the road.
Rental car accidents often involve multiple insurance policies (your personal auto insurance, the rental car company’s insurance, and potentially the other driver’s insurance). Determining which policy applies and how coverage limits are applied can be extremely complex. An experienced rental car lawyer can help you navigate these intricacies and protect your rights.
Rental Car Company Liability
In some rare cases, the rental car company itself may be liable for damages caused by their vehicle. If you crash a rental car due to known mechanical issues, such as faulty brakes, malfunctioning steering, or worn-out tires, you may have grounds for legal action. Holding a rental car company liable for an accident is necessary to demonstrate that they were negligent in their duty of care.
An attorney must gather evidence to establish a rental car company’s negligence. This evidence could include things like vehicle maintenance records, revealing a history of mechanical issues, inadequate maintenance, or a disregard for safety concerns. Expert witnesses, such as mechanics or engineers, may also be brought in, who can provide opinions on the cause of the accident and the potential role of vehicle malfunction.
If you have been involved in a rental car accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced attorney. They can provide the support you need to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us to learn more about what happens if you crash a rental car and how we can help.
Facing the Aftermath of a Rental Car Accident? We Can Help.
The aftermath of a rental car accident can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. You may be unsure of your legal rights, worried about how to proceed with your insurance claim, and concerned about your financial future. At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we understand the challenges you are facing.
Our experienced South Carolina car accident lawyer is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need. We have a proven track record of success in helping injury victims recover the compensation they deserve for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact us today for a free case consultation to get started.
