Compensation After an Accident in a Rental
When a car wreck happens in a rental vehicle, the process of seeking compensation can be unfamiliar and confusing. That said, there are paths for you to access financial relief after a rental car crash. If you have questions about who to contact, who pays for accident-related expenses, and the applicability of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage in such situations, connect with a Delray Beach personal injury attorney.
Immediate Steps After a Rental Car Accident
The first and foremost priority after any accident is ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved. If a person requires medical care, call for help. Once immediate health concerns are addressed, report the accident to the local authorities. It is important to have an official report of the incident, it can be incredibly valuable when it is time to file insurance claims.
You will also want to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved and take photographs of the accident scene, damages, and any visible injuries. And while there are many details to address, you need to inform the rental company about the accident as soon as possible as well. Rental companies are familiar with what needs to be done in the wake of a rental car collision, so they will guide you on the next steps.
How accident-related expenses following a rental car collision will be handled depends on an array of factors. For example, if you purchased insurance from the rental company, it may cover damages to the rental vehicle.
Your Personal Insurance and PIP Coverage
You may also be able to turn to your personal auto insurance to provide coverage for accidents in a rental car. Check your policy to understand the extent of coverage and any deductibles. There are also situations where a person has a credit card that offers rental car insurance as a benefit. Or, if the accident was the result of another driver’s negligence, their insurance may be responsible for your damages, including medical expenses and vehicle repairs.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage could also be an avenue for financial relief. Review your auto insurance policy to see if it includes PIP coverage and whether it extends to rental vehicles. If you have questions about the details of your policy, simply reach out to your insurance provider and ask for clarification on the specifics of PIP coverage in a rental car. They can provide detailed information on how the coverage applies.
Of course, there are experienced professionals who can provide you with support. A Delray Beach personal injury attorney will listen compassionately to the details of your situation. Then, they can effectively navigate the claims process and secure the compensation you need.
Was it a rental vehicle that you were driving when you were involved in a Florida car crash? Rental car accidents could involve more insurance claims, depending on the circumstances of the collision. Discuss the details of your case with the lawyers at Earnhart Law in Delray Beach. Schedule a no-commitment consultation today, call 561-265-2220 or contact us online.
