Whether your own vehicle is in the shop or you’re on vacation and need a way to get around, rental cars make life easier. With the use of a rental car you don’t have to worry about learning about public or other private transportation options – especially when you’re away from home and unfamiliar with your surroundings.
But while they usually make things much more manageable, what happens if you should get into an accident in your rental vehicle? Although it may prove to be a bit of a hassle, taking certain steps can not only preserve important factors, but can all together make your situation easier as well.
It is important to note that driving and being involved in a crash in a rental vehicle is pretty much the same as getting involved in a crash in your own vehicle; many of the steps that you should take are the same.
Steps to Take After Being Involved in a Crash
The first thing to do after you have experienced a crash in your rental car is to ensure that all passengers – yourself included – as well as the other driver are all okay. If this is not the case, your next step should be to call 911 for medical assistance.
Also the same is to contact the local police force of whichever town or city you are in. You want to be sure to file an accident report with them. This is important so as to document what has transpired should you need it to assist you in any accident claims that you elect to file. Another important measure to take is to obtain the names and information of any witnesses to the scene and to take picture of the setting of the accident.
Differing slightly from an accident involving a personal vehicle, the next thing to do is to contact the company of the rental car and inform them of from where you had obtained the vehicle. It is helpful to remember that the information for their phone number should be in the paperwork you ad been given when you picked up the vehicle.
The Opportunity for Renter’s Insurance
Though most companies offer rental insurance, many drivers do not elect to take it, instead depending upon their own personal rental insurance. Regardless of who is at fault, you need to connect your own insurance company.
What Can You Do?
With the involvement of your car insurance, dealing with rental car crashes can be quite complex. That’s why it is so important to contact an experienced Virginia car accident attorney in order to ensure that you get what it is that you deserve. At Surovell Isaacs & Levy PLC, we have both the experience and the knowledge to understand how to help you. Make sure that you receive whatever damages you may be entitled to.
Posted in: Car Accident