What Happens If You Wreck a Rental Car?

Getting into a car accident is stressful, but the situation can become even more complicated when it involves a rental car. If you’ve had a rental car accident in Georgia, The Weinstein Firm in Atlanta is here to help. Knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in how you handle the situation and protect your legal and financial interests.

If you get into any type of wreck in a rental car and it wasn’t your fault, it’s a good idea to contact an experienced car accident attorney in Atlanta, Georgia.

What to Do If You Wreck a Rental Car

Here’s what you need to know and do after an accident in a rental car.

Ensure Safety First

The safety of all drivers involved, passengers, and pedestrians is your top priority. If the rental vehicle is still drivable, move it to a safe location to prevent further property damage or injuries. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Call the Police

In Georgia, it’s crucial to report any car accident, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or disputes about who is the responsible party. Contact local law enforcement and provide them with the exact location of the accident. A police report is vital for filing an insurance claim and establishing the facts.

Exchange Information With All Drivers Involved

Gather contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details from the other driver. Record their name, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate, and insurance provider. Taking photos of these items can be helpful. Also, collect information from any witnesses at the scene.

Document the Scene

Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the rental car, other driver’s vehicle, and any visible property damage or minor damage. Be sure to capture:

  • Damage to all vehicles
  • The license plate of the cars involved
  • Road conditions, traffic signs, and weather
  • The exact location of the accident

This documentation can help your car accident lawyer and the insurance company determine fault.

Notify the Rental Car Company and Your Insurance Company

After ensuring safety and gathering evidence, contact the rental company immediately. Use the emergency number listed on your rental agreement. Inform them about the rental car accident, provide details about the drivers involved, and follow their instructions. The rental agency may send roadside assistance or provide further steps.

It’s crucial to notify your own insurance company and the rental car company’s claims department about the accident.

Get Medical Care

Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. Save all medical records and receipts, as they are crucial for seeking compensation for medical expenses.

Seek Legal Help

Navigating the aftermath of a rental car accident can be overwhelming. A skilled car accident lawyer at The Weinstein Firm can help you:

  • Determine who the responsible party is
  • File a rental car accident claim
  • Communicate with the rental agency, insurance provider, and other parties
  • Seek compensation for repair costs, medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage

Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case.

what happens if you wreck a rental car concept, rental car insurance concept

Will Your Car Insurance Pay for a Rental Car Accident?

Car insurance coverage for rental car accidents in Georgia can be complex, but understanding your options is crucial. Your personal auto insurance policy may extend coverage to rental vehicles. However, it’s important to be familiar with your car insurance coverage and policy limits before renting a vehicle.

  • Liability Coverage: Liability insurance covers bodily injury and vehicle damage if you’re at fault for a car wreck. This typically extends to rental cars. You have the option to buy additional liability coverage from the rental agency.
  • Collision Coverage: This type of car insurance helps pay to repair or replace your vehicle after a collision. It often covers damage to a rental car as well.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: This covers non-collision-related damage such as theft. It may also extend to rental vehicles.

Review your auto insurance policy or talk to an insurance representative to understand your coverage before you rent a car.

Does Your Credit Card Offer Rental Car Coverage?

Some credit card companies offer rental car coverage if you use your credit card to rent a vehicle. This insurance generally covers damage to the rental car but not liability. Credit car rental insurance is typically secondary. This means you file a claim with your primary insurance (your auto insurance), then rental insurance helps pay for remaining expenses such as your deductible.

Rental Car Insurance Options

Rental car companies often offer additional insurance options. A rental car company will usually offer the following coverage.

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

A collision damage waiver protects you from financial responsibility if your rental car is stolen or damaged. It helps pays for the cost of repairing a rental car. A collision/loss damage waiver often comes with exclusions. It generally doesn’t cover damage from speeding, driving on unpaved roads, or driving under the influence.

Purchasing this waiver may not be necessary if you have adequate collision and comprehensive coverage through your auto insurance. However, a rental agency could charge you for lost income while the rental vehicle is being repaired, and your personal insurance generally won’t reimburse you for this.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage protects you if you injure someone else or damage another person’s vehicle. Car rental companies in Georgia are required to provide liability insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements.

You can choose to purchase supplemental liability insurance from the rental company to increase your coverage limits in the event of a rental car accident. This extra insurance may not be necessary if you have sufficient adequate liability coverage through your personal car insurance.

Personal Accident Insurance

If you’re in an accident in a rental car, personal accident insurance helps covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.

Personal Effects Coverage

Personal effects coverages help cover personal belongings stolen from a rental car. Off-premises coverage through homeowners insurance or renters insurance may cover personal possessions outside your home. Review your policy before paying for rental coverage.

If you’re in an accident in a rental vehicle, having rental car insurance can provide peace of mind. You should review your personal car insurance coverage when deciding if you should purchase extra insurance from the car rental company.

Rental car accident in Atlanta, Georgia

What If the Other Driver Caused the Rental Car Wreck?

Georgia is an at fault state. That means if the other driver is at fault, their insurance company should pay for your damages. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

A skilled car accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process and deal with the insurance company. Insurance providers often attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame onto victims. Your car accident lawyer will work to build a strong case and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If the insurance company is unwilling to offer fair compensation, your car accident lawyer can can represent you in a personal injury lawsuit.

Legal representation is crucial after a rental car accident where the other driver caused the collision. The Weinstein Firm’s experienced team can manage every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence like the police report to representing you in court if necessary. With professional support, you can focus on recovery while knowing your rights are protected.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically two years from the accident. If you don’t file a personal injury lawsuit within two years, you could lose the right to recover compensation. You should reach out to an attorney as soon as possible after a rental car crash. Contact the Weinstein Firm today for a free case review.

Contact Our Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in a rental vehicle can be complicated. The insurance company will strive to minimize your settlement, and dealing with the claims process while recovering from can be overwhelming.

If you were the victim of a rental car accident, our Atlanta personal injury lawyers at the Weinstein Firm are here to help you. Our experienced attorneys will fight for the maximum compensation. Call us at 770-HELP-NOW or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

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