The Legal Aspects of Auto Accidents Involving Rental Vehicles

Any car accident causes stress and anxiety that can send your blood pressure through the roof. But when the crash happens in a vehicle that isn’t even yours, it’s even more complex. There are issues of liability to consider, and ultimately, you have to figure out who is going to pay compensation to the wronged party. 

Have you been involved in a crash with a rental vehicle? The team at Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell is here to help. Call us at 251-651-0483 to set up a consultation now.

Liability in Rental Vehicle Accidents 

Determining liability is a key topic in any personal injury claim. When the accident in question involves a rental vehicle, potential liable parties include: 

• Driver of the rental vehicle: Driving a vehicle that’s unfamiliar to you can be challenging, and it’s not uncommon for rental vehicle drivers to cause accidents unintentionally while figuring out a new vehicle. 
• Driver of the other vehicle: The other driver may be at fault for the accident. In this case, the rental company will likely go after them for damage to their vehicle. 
• Rental company: There are situations in which the rental company is responsible for accidents. If they rented out a vehicle that they knew to be unsafe, failed to do proper inspections and maintenance, or sent out a recalled vehicle, they may be liable for subsequent accidents. Additionally, they may be at fault for accidents if they do not properly screen renters before giving them a vehicle. 
• Manufacturer of either vehicle: If a vehicle is inherently unsafe due to design or manufacturing defects, that often falls on the manufacturer. 
• Municipality: In rare cases, a municipality is to blame for an accident caused by poorly maintained roads or unclear signs. 

Insurance Coverage 

Rental companies are required to meet minimum insurance requirements for their vehicles. They must cover $25,000 per injured party, $50,000 for injuries in each crash, and $25,000 for property damage. However, you may have additional coverage if it is provided by your own vehicle insurance provider or a credit card used to rent the vehicle. 

Rental Agreements and Their Role in an Accident

Nothing’s worse than getting involved in an accident and realizing you have no idea what to do next. As a renter, it is crucial that you read your rental agreement and know your obligations to the rental company. You likely have to report the accident to them immediately, report the accident to the police, and cooperate with their investigation. Their contract may outline the responsibilities and liabilities you accept by renting a vehicle from them. Read this contract carefully before signing and accepting a vehicle, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. It could make a world of difference if you do get involved in a crash. 

Claims Handling 

The claims handling process may be slightly different for a crash involving a rental vehicle than it is for a crash involving two personal vehicles. Rather than the driver of the rental vehicle taking the lead, the rental company will likely take over as soon as the crash is reported to them. These companies generally have legal teams and procedures in place to limit their liability and ensure that they get the payout they deserve when someone else is at fault for an accident. 

If you’ve been injured by a rental vehicle driver, it is crucial that you talk to an attorney. The rental company will do everything they can to minimize their financial losses, which may mean that you are left without the compensation you need. A Bay Minette car accident lawyer can help you build a case and demand full and fair compensation. This is particularly important in Alabama. The state’s contributory negligence laws leave victims at risk if they are even 1% to blame for a crash. 

Injured in a Rental Vehicle Crash? Call Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell 

The team of auto accident attorneys at Turner, Onderdonk, Kimbrough & Howell can help you pursue the compensation you’re owed after a crash. Let’s start with a free consultation, where we’ll discuss your accident and injuries in greater detail. Set up your consultation now by calling us at 251-651-0483 or sending us a quick message online.