Setareh Law
December 28, 2024
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful experience on any given day. There is an added level of stress and anxiety when you are involved in a California rental car accident while driving a car that is not yours. You may not know what steps to take when the car does not belong to you. In some cases, the person who lent you the car may not be its owner because the car belongs to a rental company.
If you are involved in a car accident while driving someone else’s rental car, the first step is to determine what insurance covers the accident. The person who rented the car is required to have insurance under California law. Identifying the applicable insurance policy helps determine coverage and liability after the accident. The best way to ensure that you are protected while filing a claim is to consult with an experienced California car accident lawyer.
Understanding Rental Car Accidents
Rental car accidents can be a complex and stressful experience, especially if you’re not familiar with the laws and regulations in California. If you’re involved in a rental car accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and responsibilities. Rental car accidents can occur due to various reasons, including driver error, vehicle malfunction, or adverse weather conditions.
In California, rental car accidents are subject to the same laws and regulations as other car accidents. Knowing this can help you navigate the aftermath more effectively and ensure you take the right steps to protect yourself and your interests.
Liability and Fault in a Rental Car Accident
Determining liability and fault in a rental car accident can be challenging. In California, the at-fault driver is responsible for damages and injuries caused in an accident. However, if the rental car driver is not at fault, the other driver’s insurance company may be liable for damages. If the rental car driver is partially at fault, their insurance company may also be responsible for paying damages.
It’s crucial to consult with an experienced car accident attorney to determine liability and fault in a rental car accident. An attorney can help you understand the nuances of your case and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Insurance Coverage for Rental Cars
Rental car insurance coverage varies depending on the rental car company and the type of insurance policy. In California, rental car companies are required to provide minimum liability insurance coverage for their vehicles. However, this coverage may not be sufficient to cover all damages and injuries.
It’s essential to review your rental car insurance policy and understand what is covered and what is not. Additionally, if you have auto insurance, it may also cover rental car accidents. Understanding your insurance coverage can help you avoid unexpected expenses and ensure that you are adequately protected in the event of an accident.
4 Steps to Take After a Rental Car Accident
After an accident involving a rental vehicle, your first step should be to ensure the safety of yourself and others involved in the accident. It is crucial to call emergency services and authorities to the scene immediately. Once authorities and emergency services are on the way, you should take the following four steps after a rental car accident:
Collect Information and Document Evidence
An accident is likely to leave you shaken, even if you did not sustain any injuries. Rather than trying to write things down, it may be easier to take photographs. Photos can be beneficial when reconstructing the accident. Take photos of the license plates of the other vehicles involved. Snapping photos of weather conditions, street signs, vehicle damage, and any other elements involved in the accident is a great way to ensure you have all the documentation and evidence needed to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. Additionally, documenting rental car damage is crucial for insurance claims and to address any immediate payment obligations stipulated in rental agreements.
Contact the Rental Car Company
Most rental car companies will provide the renter with an emergency number to call, should any problems with the vehicle arise. If the person who lent you the car is not with you, contact them so they can contact the rental company. The company will provide you with a list of instructions to follow after the accident. Whether the car is drivable or needs towing, the rental company will instruct you on how to handle the situation. Additionally, it is essential to contact the credit card company to understand the coverage options available.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Since you are driving a car not owned by you or the person who lent you the car, determining whose insurance covers the accident can be complicated, just like any other car accident. Filing an insurance claim in such a complex situation can be confusing and challenging. A talented car accident lawyer can navigate and guide you through the complex process of filing an insurance claim.
File a Report with the Rental Company
Every rental car crash requires a report to be filed with the police. When the car in question is a rental car, you must also file a report with the rental company. The company may ask you about the at-fault party, the damages the car sustained, any injuries, and any other information related to the accident. Both of these records will be good to have while filing an insurance claim or when deciding to pursue legal action.
California Laws and Regulations
California has specific laws and regulations regarding rental car accidents. For example, California law requires rental car companies to provide minimum liability insurance coverage for their vehicles. Additionally, California law also requires drivers to report accidents to the police and to their insurance company. It’s essential to understand California laws and regulations regarding rental car accidents to ensure you receive fair compensation for damages and injuries. Being aware of these laws can help you navigate the legal process more effectively and protect your rights in the aftermath of an accident.
Contact the Experienced California Car Accident Lawyers at Setareh Law
A talented and experienced car accident attorney can significantly help you with your claim or legal case, especially when dealing with complex accidents like a rental car accident. Your lawyer can communicate with the rental company, your insurance company, and the other drivers involved.
At Setareh Law, we understand how complicated insurance claims can become. With over fourteen years of experience, our attorneys have the necessary skills and resources to handle any car accident insurance claim or lawsuit, regardless of how challenging the situation may be. Setareh Law has handled numerous traffic accident cases, and our attorneys know how to build strong claims on behalf of our clients. For a free case evaluation, you can call (310) 659-1826 or fill out our online contact form. When you rent a car, understanding the various aspects of insurance coverage, including rental car insurance options, state requirements for minimum insurance, and the roles of personal auto insurance policies, is crucial.
