Accidents Involving Rental Cars: What You Need to Know

Renting a car can be a convenient and cost-effective way to travel, whether for business or pleasure. However, accidents can happen, and the situation can become more complicated when it involves a rental car. At Saladino & Schaaf, PLLC, your Kentucky rental car accident lawyers, we’re experienced attorneys who have helped hundreds of folks pick up the pieces of their lives after they have been hurt due to the negligence of others.

What’s Your Coverage?

Rental car companies typically offer various insurance options (usually for an additional fee), such as collision damage waiver, liability protection, and personal accident insurance. The collision damage waiver is usually the most comprehensive coverage, as it typically covers damage to the rental car caused by collision or other incidents. In addition, the credit card you use to rent the car may also offer additional insurance protections (without extra fees) that you should familiarize yourself with when planning to rent a car. 

If you already own a car and have personal auto coverage insurance, check to see if you have any rental car-related coverage before you leave home. Some auto policies extend coverage to rental cars, while others may have limitations or exclusions. For example, your auto insurance may not cover certain types of vehicles, such as luxury cars or trucks, or it may not cover rentals for business purposes.

Accidents Happen

There are a few things to remember if you are involved in a rental car accident. First, make sure everyone involved is okay. If anyone is injured, call emergency services. Even if the accident seems minor and there are no injuries, it’s still important to report it to the police and the rental car company. This helps create a record of the incident and may protect you from potential disputes. In a previous blog post titled “Seeking Medical Attention After a Car Accident” we discussed the necessary steps to take if someone is injured in an accident.

What’s Your Liability? 

Regarding liability issues, it’s important to note that the rental car company is typically not liable for damages or injuries caused by the rental car driver. The driver is generally responsible for any accidents they cause, and their insurance (or the insurance they purchased through the rental car company) will be the primary coverage. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if the rental car company knowingly rented a car with a defect that caused the accident, they may be liable. 

The consequences of not having the right insurance coverage or enough coverage for a rental car may motivate you to consider additional coverage. If you decline the insurance options offered by the rental car company and do not have adequate coverage through your personal auto insurance or credit card, you could be personally liable for any damages or injuries caused by an accident.

Carefully review your insurance options when renting a car to protect yourself and minimize the risk of liability issues. If you’re unsure about your coverage, contact your auto insurance provider or credit card issuer for clarification. You may want to consider purchasing additional insurance through the rental car company if you are traveling internationally or your insurance has limitations.

Minimizing Your Exposure

In addition to understanding insurance and liability issues, you can take several other steps to help minimize the risk of accidents when renting a car. Before driving off the rental lot, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and report it to the rental company. 

Equally important, familiarize yourself with the car’s features and controls to help you operate the vehicle safely and confidently. Adjust the mirrors and seat to your liking. When driving, obey traffic laws and speed limits, and avoid distractions such as texting or eating. If traveling to an unfamiliar area, use your GPS or maps app to navigate safely.

Saladino & Schaaf, Kentucky Rental Car Accident Lawyers

Accidents involving rental cars can be stressful and complicated. Your safety and that of those around you should always be the top priority when driving a rental car. At Saladino & Schaaf, your Kentucky rental car accident lawyers, we’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve if you have been hurt in a rental car accident.  

Let us help. Your first consultation is always free. Call us at (270) 444-0406 or (270) 753-1529. Contact us today. Our offices are conveniently located in Paducah and Murray.