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When you’re behind the wheel, the last thing you expect is an accident with a rental vehicle. Accidents can happen to anyone, and knowing how to handle the situation properly is very important.
Read on to learn the essential steps to take if you are in a car accident involving a rental vehicle.
An experienced accident lawyer will always be your best call whenever you need to handle the damages arising from an accident involving a rental vehicle. Contact us today and get a stellar representation from a lawyer with the track record to get you what you need and more.
Immediate Steps to Take at the Scene Of A Rental Vehicle Accident
Of course, your knee-jerk reaction to a vehicle accident will be to ensure safety. Check the injuries you may have sustained while moving to a safe location. Reach out to emergency services requesting medical help and appraising them of the situation.
It is also advisable to take pictures and videos of the damage that may have occurred to your vehicle immediately. Gather contact information from all parties involved, including witnesses. Ensure you exchange details with the other party, such as names, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
Finally, notify the rental company as soon as possible, providing them with all the necessary details about the accident to ensure proper handling of the situation.
Did the Rental Car Cause the Accident?
Once you have ensured your safety, what is left is to determine who caused the accident between the parties involved. If the rental car caused an accident due to mechanical failure, poor maintenance, or an unaddressed vehicle recall, the rental company could be liable. Mechanical issues such as faulty brakes or steering problems, if proven, can point to negligence on the rental company’s part.
In an instance where the car had an active recall that contributed to the accident, both the manufacturer and the rental company might be responsible. Don’t bat an eyelid at this moment, just contact a competent accident lawyer with a good grasp of the laws, who can defend you.
Accidents Involving Rideshare Vehicles and Rental Cars
If your accident involves a rental vehicle being used as a rideshare vehicle, such as for services like Uber or Lyft, the situation can become even more complex. Rideshare drivers typically carry their own personal insurance, and both Uber and Lyft provide additional insurance coverage when the driver is logged into the app and actively driving a passenger. However, this coverage may not always apply if the accident occurs while the driver is not logged into the app.
If the rideshare driver was using a rental car at the time of the accident, multiple insurance policies might be in play, including the driver’s personal insurance, the rental car company’s insurance, and the rideshare company’s coverage. Navigating these layers of insurance can be challenging, making it crucial to consult with a rideshare accident lawyer who understands the nuances of rideshare accidents and can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Who Is At Fault In An Accident Involving Rental Car?
When there is a road accident, there is always the one who is at fault. A professional evaluation of the situation can help you in this instance. In our free consultation, a Nashville accident lawyer will walk you through all these details, ensuring you understand your situation before making any decisions. We’re here to help and guide you every step of the way, with no obligation to sign anything until you feel confident and informed.
Can I sue the Rental Company for Damages?
Yes, you can sue the rental company for damages. Once we can establish negligence as a contributor to the accident. This could occur if the rental vehicle had mechanical issues due to poor maintenance, or if the car was subject to an unaddressed recall that led to the accident.
Gathering evidence such as maintenance records, expert inspections, and any relevant documentation is will strengthen our case. Consulting with an accident lawyer in Nashville will help determine the strength of your case.
What Happens if the Rental Driver is Uninsured?
If the driver in a rental car accident is uninsured, it complicates the process of recovering damages. The uninsured driver may still be personally liable for the damages they caused, but collecting compensation can be difficult. If the rental vehicle’s driver is uninsured but purchased insurance through the rental company, that policy may cover the damages.
Additionally, if the other driver is uninsured, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage—either through personal or rental insurance may help pay for the damages. The uninsured driver may also face legal penalties, such as fines or license suspension, depending on state laws. Given these complexities, consulting an accident lawyer is often recommended to explore all options for compensation.
We Will Get You Deserved Compensation
Whenever our clients suffer any form of injury from an act or omission, we work tirelessly to get you the deserved compensation— our results speak for itself.
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