Every day, hundreds of thousands of motor vehicles travel on Texas roads. While many of these vehicles are owned by individuals, some are rental cars. In the bustling economic hub of greater Houston, many visitors opt to rent cars from William P. Hobby Airport or George Bush International Airport. With so many rental cars on the road, it is not uncommon for accidents to occur involving these vehicles.
However, determining liability in rental car accidents can be complex, as the driver and owner of the car are typically two different entities. This can lead to confusion about which insurance policy applies and how the case differs from a typical auto collision. If you find yourself involved in a rental car accident, our experienced Sugar Land rental car accident lawyers can assist you in navigating the claims process and holding all responsible parties accountable for your damages.
When you rent a car from Enterprise, Alamo, or any similar company, the rental car agent will usually ask if you would like to purchase auto insurance. You may choose to purchase collision coverage for property damage and/or liability coverage for personal injury caused to others. If you opt for liability coverage, this insurance policy will usually be the first one applied in the event of an accident.
However, there are instances when the driver is covered by their personal insurance policy as well. In these cases, it is typically the personal insurance policy that will cover any damages not covered by the rental car company’s auto insurance policy. But since each case is unique, is it crucial that you consult a knowledgeable rental car attorney in your area. Our team in Sugar Land has decades of experience handling similar cases, and are happy to help you too.
After being involved in a rental car collision in Sugar Land, your first priority should be to assess your physical injuries. If you or the other driver have sustained serious injuries, it is crucial to call an ambulance and seek medical attention immediately. If further treatment or assessment is recommended, please ensure that you follow up with your doctor. If you experience any pain or discomfort in the hours or days following the accident, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out any serious conditions such as internal bleeding or fractures.
If no immediate medical attention is necessary, it is important to exchange insurance information with the other driver and take photos of their insurance information and driver’s license. You should also contact the police to report the collision, even if there is only property damage to the vehicles. A police report can be useful in documenting the accident and determining fault. Do not try to flee the scene out of anxiety or adrenaline. Try to remain calm and stay at the scene until the police arrive. Leaving too soon could imply a sense of guilt even when the crash is not your fault.
Lastly, it is essential to consult an experienced Sugar Land rental car attorney about your rights. Even if you don’t wish to take legal action, it is still important to know what to expect from a legal standpoint. A rental car accident attorney can help you navigate the claims process, understand the complexities of insurance policies, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for any damages or injuries you may have sustained.
Recovering damages in a Sugar Land rental car accident is similar to other auto collision cases. If the negligence of the driver of the rental car caused the accident, they can be held liable for the damages. Insurance companies typically pay for these damages.
Most rental car companies offer insurance coverage for accidents. However, there may be instances where coverage is denied. For example, the coverage may only apply to drivers listed on the rental agreement. If the rental car driver lent the vehicle to someone not listed, the rental car company’s insurance may not cover the accident.
Personal insurance coverage often follows the driver, regardless of whether the car is rented. If the driver had personal coverage at the time of the accident, their policy provider will handle the claim. The insurance company may require additional proof to show why the rental car company’s insurance does not apply.
If the responsible driver does not have applicable car insurance, you can use your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage to recover your losses. Using your UM coverage usually does not increase your premiums, as you were not at fault for the accident.
If you have been injured in a car accident involving a rental car, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of an attorney. Our skilled Sugar Land rental car accident lawyers at Lone Star Injury Attorneys are dedicated to helping victims recover what they have lost. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.
