Car leases have become increasingly popular alternatives to purchasing a vehicle because they provide an affordable way for drivers to trade in an older model for a newer one. If you’ve gotten into a car wreck with a leased vehicle, you probably have many questions. Learn the answers to some of the most common ones and consider enlisting the help of an automobile accident attorney.

Common Questions About Car Accidents in Leased Vehicles

What should I do after an accident in a leased car?

Do the exact same thing you would if you were driving any car.

Specifically:

1 Make sure that the other driver and any passengers in either car are unharmed and not in need of immediate medical attention. If the accident is minor, you may only need to exchange insurance and contact information. 2 2 In a more serious accident, call the police. You will also need to contact your insurance agency as well as the company from which you leased the vehicle and an automobile accident attorney.

3 If you are hurt go immediately to the Hospital. Your bills will get paid because Pa is a NO FAULT state.

4 Contact a lawyer who you trust and has experience in car injury cases.

Pittsburgh auto attorney Bernard Tully at 412 281 8700 has been handling car accident cases for over 30 years. That is a lot of experience.

What happens to the car?

Depending on the state of the vehicle, you’ll either need to get it repaired or turn it in as a total loss. The quality of repairs is important when dealing with a leased car. Only take it to an auto repair shop that has been approved by the insurance company and have it restored to like-new condition. If the car is totaled, the insurance company will write a check to the lease finance company. You or your GAP insurance will be responsible for any deficiency if the payout is less than the lease balance.

Again, Pittsburgh Lawyer Bernard Tully can help you deal with that situation.

Am I liable for damages?

There are laws that protect owners of leased vehicles from liability when it comes to damages from car accidents. This means that if the accident was caused by your negligence, you could be responsible for any claims made by the other parties involved in the accident. You or your insurance company could be petitioned for compensation for damages, in which case, an automobile accident attorney can help.

Do I need an automobile accident attorney?

It’s wise to call an automobile accident attorney soon after a wreck, whether the car in question was leased or not.

You will need legal help if you’re being sued by a third party or if you suspect that the leasing agency is not complying with the terms of the lease. On the other hand, if you’d like to make a claim against another driver for their negligence, Pittsburgh automobile accident attorney can help you recover damages for your injuries.

If you’ve gotten into a wreck with a leased car, get the legal help you need by contacting Bernard Tully, Attorney at Law in the Greater Pittsburgh area. This automobile accident attorney has more than 30 years of trial experience and has served over 5,000 clients throughout his career. He also takes the time to thoroughly research each case to make an individualized plan for every client. Learn more about his practice online or call (412) 281-8700 to schedule a consultation.