What Happens After a Rental Car Accident?

Following a rental car accident, one of the first things you need to know is whether you have rental car insurance or other coverage for an accident. You may be covered by the following:

Rental Car Insurance

Even if you cause an accident while driving a rental car, the insurance will pay the damage if you opted for the full coverage. Some rental car providers may provide a zero-deductible collision damage waiver, which covers all rental vehicle damages, including those caused by an accident you caused. It’s essential to check the details of your rental car contract to understand the extent of your coverage.

Credit Cards Sometimes Offer Insurance Coverage

Many credit cards offer rental car collision coverage as a benefit, but it’s essential to read the terms and conditions to understand the extent of the coverage provided. Similarly, your personal car insurance policy may cover damage to a rental vehicle if your policy includes rental car coverage.

Employer Insurance

Additionally, if you’re renting a vehicle for business, your employer may provide coverage for business trips involving rental cars. It’s essential to check with your employer before renting a vehicle to understand the extent of your coverage and any associated restrictions.

What To Do After a Rental Car Accident

A rental car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. If you find yourself in this position, it’s important to know what to do. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, you should take the following steps:

• Pull over immediately and check for injuries

The safety of everyone involved should be your top priority. Immediately pull over to a safe location and check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 for emergency medical assistance.

• Exchange info with the other driver

After ensuring everyone’s safety, exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver and take note of their name, phone number, driver’s license number, and license plate number. This will help you file necessary claims with your rental car company and insurance.

• Collect evidence of the accident

Collect evidence of the accident scene, such as photos, witness statements, and police reports. This evidence will be beneficial when making insurance and rental car claims.

• Inform the rental company of the accident

Notify the rental company of the accident as soon as possible. They will tell you what to do next, and they may send a tow truck to take the damaged car to a safe place.

• Fill out an incident report, if required

Sometimes, the rental company may require an incident report to be filled out. This document details the accident and may include witness statements and photos. It’s crucial to be truthful and accurate in the report.

• Cooperate with the insurance process through the rental company

If you purchased rental insurance, follow the rental company’s instructions on submitting a claim. Be sure to cooperate with their claims process.

• Contact your own car insurance or credit card company to file a claim

If you declined rental insurance and your personal car insurance or credit card company provides coverage, contact them to file a claim. They may require evidence of the accident, such as a police report or photos.

If you need help following a Phoenix car accident, contact us to schedule a free consultation.