Understanding Liability in Rental Car Accidents
Determining liability is the first critical step after an accident involving a rented vehicle. Liability depends on who caused the accident and what kind of coverage was in place at the time.
Key Points:
- If another driver caused the accident, their insurance should cover your damages.
- If you were at fault, coverage may come from your auto policy, credit card benefits, or insurance purchased through the rental company.
- Liability waivers or Collision Damage Waivers (CDWs) offered by rental companies may limit your financial exposure, but not in every case.
Types of Insurance Coverage That May Apply
Personal Auto Insurance
Your existing car insurance policy may extend to rental cars. Most policies include liability, and some also offer collision and comprehensive coverage.
Credit Card Coverage
Some credit card companies offer secondary rental car coverage if you use their card to book the rental. These benefits vary, so please check with your card issuer for the most up-to-date information.
Rental Car Company Insurance
Rental companies often sell CDW or LDW coverage. These typically cover damage to the vehicle but come with exclusions, especially if you violate the rental agreement.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident
What you do right after a rental car accident can have a major impact on your claim. Take the following steps:
- Call 911 and file a police report.
- Take photos of the scene, damage, and license plates.
- Exchange information with other involved drivers.
- Notify the rental car company immediately.
- Avoid admitting fault or speculating on the cause.
Thorough documentation supports your legal position and simplifies the claims process.
Filing a Car Accident Claim in Los Angeles
To file a successful claim:
- Contact your insurance provider and the rental company.
- Provide the rental agreement, accident report, and photos.
- Clarify which insurance will apply: your own, the rental agency’s, or a third party’s.
- Follow up regularly and document all communications.
Each insurance company has its procedures and timelines, so timely action is crucial.
Common Challenges in Rental Car Accident Claims
Rental car accidents often involve complications beyond typical vehicle collisions.
Challenges Include:
- Disputes over liability among multiple insurers.
- Exclusions in rental agreements may invalidate coverage.
- Delays in claim approval or denial of responsibility.
An attorney can help cut through red tape and ensure your claim gets proper attention.
When to Contact a Lawyer
If you experience any of the following, it is time to seek legal representation:
- Personal injury as a result of the accident, like major Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Paralysis Injury & etc.
- Uncertainty about fault or disputes between insurance companies.
- Denied or delayed claims.
- Pressure from insurance adjusters to settle prematurely.
Hiring a lawyer ensures that your legal rights are protected and that you receive full compensation.
Schedule a Free Legal Evaluation With LA Injury Lawyers.Rental car accident claims are rarely simple. Even minor crashes can result in major complications when multiple insurers are involved. LA Injury Lawyers brings decades of experience handling car accident claims in Los Angeles, including those involving rental vehicles.
Recent Results:
- $11 Million – Brain injury victim
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We understand the rental car industry and know how to handle complex claims effectively.Call us today at (818) 539-5390
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be held liable for a rental car accident even if I was not at fault?
Yes, if liability is disputed or unclear, insurers may attempt to pass costs onto you. Legal representation is crucial in such cases.
Does insurance pay for rental car damages?
Yes, depending on the source. Your personal auto policy, credit card, or rental insurance may cover the cost.
Can I sue another driver if they hit my rental car?
Absolutely. If the other driver was at fault, you can file a claim or lawsuit for vehicle damage and injuries.
Should I accept the rental company’s insurance?
Only if you do not have sufficient personal or credit card coverage, review the terms carefully before making a decision.
What if the rental car was involved in a hit-and-run?
You may still be eligible for compensation through your own insurance or supplemental rental protection.