If you get into an accident while driving a rental car in Boca Raton, you should:
- Notify the police right away.
- Get prompt or emergency medical attention, which is necessary.
- Get the names, contact details, vehicles, and/or insurance information of everyone involved.
- Talk to any witnesses and take photos and videos of the scene.
- Notify the rental company.
- Notify your own auto insurance company or credit card company, if applicable.
You should then discuss your case with a Boca Raton car accident attorney with experience handling accidents involving rental cars. Take note, however, that it’s generally best to consult an attorney as soon as possible, even before talking to any insurance providers or the rental company, so that your attorney can start protecting your best interests and rights immediately.
Who Pays Compensation for Damages in a Rental Car Accident?
Whether your auto insurance coverage will cover a rental car accident will depend on whether or not you live in Florida. If you’re a resident of Florida, your PIP (personal injury protection) or no-fault auto insurance benefits may cover your rental car accident. But remember that the law also requires everyone (residents and visitors) to carry specific rental car coverage when driving in Florida.
If you’re from out-of-state and don’t have PIP benefits, check with your insurance provider or agent to determine whether your auto insurance coverage extends to rental vehicles. The type of vehicle you rented, where you’ll be driving it, how you’ll use it, and your coverage limits are all factors that must be considered when determining if your personal auto insurance coverage will cover the rental car accident.
Also, some credit cards provide rental vehicle insurance, which is usually limited, but you may want to call your credit card provider just to make sure.
Why Rental Car Accidents Are Different From Regular Car Accidents
Because there are normally multiple parties involved in rental vehicle accidents, the negotiation and claims processes are typically more complex than usual compared to regular car accidents. These processes often involve plenty of auto insurance companies, claims adjusters, and attorneys, and it can be particularly hard for renters to protect their interests and legal rights.
This is why legal assistance from an experienced Boca Raton car accident lawyer is crucial. Your lawyer can uncover and explore the multiple layers and sources of insurance coverage that may apply to your case. Working with a lawyer is also important in cases where the rental agency itself may have contributed to or caused the accident.
Take note that rental agencies have a legal duty to make sure that the rental vehicle is working properly. As part of your rental agreement, you’re responsible for inspecting the vehicle, but you’re responsible only to the extent of what you could reasonably identify.
Talk to an Experienced Boca Raton Car Accident Attorney
Injured in a rental car accident in Boca Raton? The Demand The Limits Boca Raton car accident attorney can help. To understand your options and sources for compensation, schedule a free case review with our Boca Raton car accident attorney by filling out our online form or calling 561-600-3555.