Whether traveling for work or on vacation, you might rent a car to get around town. Being unfamiliar with the area could increase the risk of a fender bender or major collision. Although the experience can be frightening, try to remain calm and reach out to an auto accident lawyer in the area for advice. To ensure the situation is handled swiftly, below are answers to common questions about crashes in rental cars. 

4 Questions About Car Rental Crashes

What should I do at the scene?

Immediately following the accident, you should proceed as if driving your own personal vehicle. This includes making sure everyone involved is okay and reaching out for emergency medical assistance if needed. Next, exchange insurance information with the other driver. Don’t mention the car is a rental, as it could tempt the other motorist to change their version of events. 

Do I need to document the damage?

When you rented the vehicle, you should have performed a visual inspection, noting any damage. This way, you won’t be blamed post-accident for any pre-existing issues. After the collision, take pictures of any damages sustained, such as windshield cracks, scraped paint, and dented bumpers. The rental company will need this for their records. Including photos will also come in handy when filing an insurance claim.

When should I contact the rental company?

Even if you still have a few days left in the agreement, let the rental company know immediately about the accident. A sticker with a number to call should be inside the interior cabin. A representative will let you know about the specific procedures you need to follow. Taking the car back to the pickup location for an inspection is also a good idea, as you’ll need to fill out paperwork and continuing to drive could make the damage worse. Before you leave town, reach out to an auto accident lawyer about any questions you have regarding how the situation is handled. 

Who pays for damages?

Even if the other driver is at fault for the collision, you are still legally obligated to pay to repair damage to the rental car. The money can come from your personal auto insurance or the credit card you have on file at the rental location. Companies are aware these situations can arise, which is why they offer renters additional insurance coverage. If you signed a collision damage waiver, the company won’t hold you accountable for repairs or replacement. With liability coverage, you won’t be held financially responsible for damages to the other vehicle or the medical expenses of injured parties. 

If you’ve gotten into a car crash in the Howell County, MO, area, contact the auto accident lawyers at Henry & Williams P.C. in West Plains for help. With over 60 years of experience, the attorneys will let you know about state laws pertaining to your case, prove the other driver’s liability, and help you understand settlement options. To schedule a consultation with a skilled auto accident lawyer, call (417) 256-8133. Visit the law firm online to learn more about each counselor.