Every Step You Should Take if You Get in an Accident in a Rental Car in Oklahoma City

When you’re traveling, getting in a car accident is the last thing on your mind. Car rentals are convenient for people who travel or those who prefer not to put extra miles on their vehicle. Although no one expects to be in a rental car accident, you should always be prepared. In the event you’re in an accident that is not your fault, you still need to inform the rental company and your insurance company of the incident. Insurance policies vary, and how you should proceed will depend on your particular policy.

No matter what car you’re driving, getting in an accident is always scary. It can be even more confusing to know what to do next when the car isn’t under your name. While the basic steps are the same in any accident, follow the steps below if you have been in a rental car accident:

• Check your surroundings. Check to see if anyone is injured. If so, call 911.
• Don’t tell the other driver you are driving a rental car. Some people may try to take advantage of you.
• Don’t promise the other party that you won’t file a claim or talk with an insurance company.
• Contact the rental company and inform them you have been in an accident. There may be paperwork you need to fill out.
• Call your insurance company. If you’re uncertain about what type of coverage you have, ask them if you have collision or comprehensive coverage within your liability coverage that is required by law. If you’ve been in an accident in a rental car, collision and comprehensive coverage will help protect the car you rented.
• Find out what your deductible is. Most rental companies do require renters to have a certain deductible amount, and they may ask you if you would like to buy extra rental insurance. If you purchased additional coverage for the rental car, inform your personal insurance company.
• Contact one of our car accident attorneys at Colbert Cooper Hill. They will answer any questions you have and can help handle insurance companies. If you’ve been injured in an accident and it was the other driver’s fault, you could receive compensation for your injury.

Car Rental Accident Insurance Information

If you decided not to purchase extra insurance or a collision waiver offered by the rental company, your personal insurance company would be held responsible if your policy only provides first-party coverage – which is the compensation paid by an individual’s own insurer. It’s crucial that you understand the type of insurance policy you have to know how to best handle the accident claim.

If your policy does not cover rental car accidents, then you will still have to pay the rental company. If you purchased extra insurance, make sure you read the fine print thoroughly.

For example, if the car is in the repair shop, you will owe the rental company money for each day it’s there, as if you’re still using it.

There are rental companies that have insurance policies that offer complete coverage, but you would be required to pay the premium if you’re in an accident. You can check your insurance policy to see if you have a deductible for rental car accidents in your contract.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney

Our car accident attorneys know what you’re going through and can help take care of your case. If you or someone you know has been in a car rental accident, our attorneys are ready to serve you. We have over 25 years of experience, so we understand that car accidents can be stressful. At Colbert Cooper Hill Attorneys, our main goal is to help you return to life as quickly as possible.

Numerous questions may arise when dealing with rental companies and your personal insurance company. Our car accident attorneys can provide answers, and will keep you updated on the progress of your case. Call us today at (877) 579-6800 or fill out a free online consultation form. You can reach a team member anytime. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.