When there is a car accident, being in a rental car can make the entire process a little more complicated. Since the driver doesn’t own the vehicle, it is important for them to make sure they follow the right steps to handle the accident carefully. Doing this can make a difference in whether they’re able to get compensation for their injuries.
Stay Safe and Get Emergency Medical Care if Needed
Initial steps to take after a rental car accident should always include staying safe and getting emergency medical care if needed. It may not be a good idea to move the cars immediately after the accident, but if possible, those in the vehicle should move out of the road to avoid a secondary accident from someone not paying attention. If the person is injured, they may want to get emergency medical assistance for all of their injuries. This helps both with recovery and with getting the right amount of compensation for the claim.
Document the Accident Carefully
The driver of the rental car will want to make sure they carefully document as much as possible about the accident. They may want to write down what happened to avoid forgetting any details. At the scene, they may want to take car accident pictures to be able to show how the accident occurred, who was at fault, and the damage done to the vehicle. This can be used if needed to help prove that the other driver was at fault and the driver of the rental car is owed compensation for their injuries.
Contact the Rental Company
It is important for the driver to contact the rental car company as soon as possible after the accident. They may have policies in place for how the vehicle is to be handled, such as having it towed to a certain body shop for repairs. They can also provide information on insurance coverage if it was purchased through the rental or if there is anything else the renter needs to know to be able to file a claim.
Check Insurance Coverage
The renter will want to check all potential insurance coverage to see how they are covered for the accident and who they will file a claim with initially. This can get complicated, since not all rental car drivers will need insurance through the rental company. They may have other types of insurance that will cover them in an accident.
Keep Track of the Claim
Handling a car accident that occurs while driving a rental car can be far more complex than a typical car accident, so it is important for the driver to make sure they keep close track of the claim and what’s happening with it. If they aren’t sure about any part of the process, they may want to speak with a lawyer who can help them figure out the right insurance company, how to file a claim, how to make sure they get the right amount of compensation, and more.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident while driving a rental car, it may be a good idea to get help with the claims process to avoid potential issues. Schedule a consultation with a lawyer to learn more about how they can help with your claim.
