If you get into an accident with a driver of a rental car and you believe that the accident was the other drivers' fault, there are a few things you need to be aware of. Obviously, if the accident was your fault, then your insurance will be compensating the other driver and the car rental company, but if the accident is not your fault, there are a few things you should know.
The insurance is not always simple
Normally, a car insurance policy follows the car. The owner of the car doesn't have to be the driver, but the policy will cover most people who are driving. But with a rental, it is the driver that matters. Sometimes the driver will have a policy that covers a rental. In this case, the driver should be carrying his proof of insurance information with him. However, it is common for a driver to simply buy insurance from the rental company. In this case, you need to have the insurance information as well as the car rental company's name. Most drivers will likely have a copy of the rental agreement in the glove compartment. However, to make matters more difficult, there is a third possible way to have insurance for car rentals, and this is with a credit card. The rental agency will have more details for you.
It may be difficult getting compensation from a rental company
Although it is a good idea to consult with an attorney when there is extensive damage to your car or injuries, this takes on additional importance when dealing with a rental car company. And be forewarned, the insurance coverage obtained through car rental companies often has a lower limit for liability.
The driver may not have any coverage
When insurance is purchased by the driver through a car rental company, it is assumed only that one person will be driving. If anyone else is driving and there is an accident, there may not be any insurance for you to file a claim with. In this case, your insurance policy will be the one to cover damages. Of course, this assumes that you have enough coverage on your policy. If not, there are still possibilities. You may be able to bring a legal action against the driver or, under certain circumstances, the car rental company.
If you have had a small fender bender with a rental car, just remember that the insurance can be tricky. Make sure you get all of the driver's information just as you normally would, but make sure you understand what insurance is covering the driver. If your car has sustained heavy damage or you have been injured, you should consult with an attorney to help navigate the complexities of an accident involving a rental car.
For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Cok Kinzler PLLP.
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