Who Is Responsible for Damages in a Rental Car Accident?
If you rented a car to get around California, an accident that damages the vehicle or causes injuries is a worst-case scenario that can be difficult to deal with. You may not know where to turn for damage coverage. Understanding your potential recovery options in a Los Angeles car accident lawsuit can give you greater financial and emotional peace of mind.
Who Pays for Rental Car Damage After an Accident?
The party that is responsible or liable for paying for a rental car accident depends on the cause of the crash and the insurance coverage available. In California, a fault-based law presides over car accident cases. Under this rule, the driver or party at fault for causing a collision must pay. When you are driving a rental car, however, you may have access to coverage elsewhere.
The At-Fault Party’s Insurer
If the other driver caused the damage to your rental car, his or her automobile insurance should pay to repair the vehicle and restore it to its previous state. If the rental car was totaled, the other driver’s insurance should pay the total pre-crash value of the vehicle.
After you file a claim with another driver’s insurer, the company will investigate and either approve or deny coverage. If your claim is approved, the insurer will pay the rental car company directly to repair the vehicle. If you already paid out of pocket for repairs while the claim was being processed, an insurance settlement will reimburse you instead.
Rental Car Insurance
If the at-fault driver’s insurance company disputes fault or you were at fault, any rental car coverage that you purchased may be invoked to pay for rental vehicle repairs. The types and amounts of coverage available will depend on the policy you purchased when you rented the vehicle. If you chose not to purchase rental insurance, you may be able to seek coverage from other sources or have to pay out of pocket.
Your Insurer
If you are at fault for the crash or you need supplemental coverage, your rental car accident claim may go through your own personal car insurance policy. Call your insurer to notify them of the accident and ask about any available coverage. Policy add-ons such as collision and comprehensive insurance may apply to your case.
A Credit Card Company
Some credit cards will pay to repair a damaged rental car when the rental agency’s optional insurance coverage is declined. If you charged the entire cost of the rental car to an eligible credit card and did not purchase rental insurance, the card’s insurance can be used to pay for vehicle repairs. A credit card may offer primary or secondary coverage, depending on the terms of the policy.
Injured in an Accident?
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What to Do After an Accident With a Rental Car in Los Angeles, CA
The insurance process when dealing with a rental car accident in California can be complicated. To save yourself the stress and hassle of a confusing claim – as well as potentially a lot of money in out-of-pocket rental car repairs – you should consult with a car accident attorney for assistance.
Immediately after the accident, call 911 to report the crash. Notify the rental agency, as well. Exchange information with the other driver. Be sure to get immediate medical care for any injuries. Then, before you initiate your claim or accept personal liability for a damaged rental car, contact an injury lawyer at Rose, Klein & Marias LLP for a free evaluation of your options.