If you have been involved in an accident with a rental car, the situation can quickly become more complicated than if only motorists’ personal vehicles are involved. How the accident is handled will largely depend on how the accident occurred, what the insurance policy says, and the San Antonio accident lawyer you choose.
Different Types of Insurance Policies That Cover Rental Cars
One of the complicating factors involved in rental car accidents is that various insurance policies may apply, including the following:
Your Personal Auto Insurance
A renter’s personal auto insurance is usually the first and primary form of insurance involved in these accidents. Your liability coverage on your personal auto policy usually extends to the rental car. Therefore, if you are responsible for the crash, your personal auto insurance may cover the damage to the other vehicle. Your collision and comprehensive coverage also applies, and you will be responsible for paying your deductible first.
If you have personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments (MedPay) coverage, this insurance can help pay your medical bills regardless of fault.
While these are the general rules, the specific language in the insurance policy dictates whether your existing coverage extends to rental vehicles. If you’re unsure of your coverage, you can contact your insurance agent to inquire about your coverage and how it works. Request this information in writing.
Also, be aware that there could be exceptions, such as if you are using certain types of rental vehicles, how long it can be rented, and whether the vehicle is being used for business purposes.
You can layer coverage with other types of insurance to ensure you have the insurance that you need.
Rental Company Coverage
At the rental counter and/or online when you complete your booking, the rental car company may offer you several different products, including:
- Loss damage waiver: A loss or collision damage waiver is an agreement by the rental company that says it will not charge you for any damage to your rental if you crash it or it is stolen. While the cost of this insurance can quickly add up, it can save you from having to pay expensive repair bills.
- Supplemental liability insurance: This additional insurance increases your liability insurance up to the amount you have purchased so that if you get involved in a wreck, you can cover more than the state-minimum liability amounts and protect your legal interests.
- Personal accident insurance: This type of insurance covers medical expenses for you and your passengers while in the rental car.
- Personal effects insurance: This insurance covers your personal items if they are stolen or damaged during your rental.
Depending on your particular situation, these additional insurance offerings can be highly useful; however, each adds to the daily cost of your rental.
Credit Card Coverage
Some insurance companies offer rental car protection as a secondary form of insurance. Look over your credit card agreement as many do not offer protection if you are found liable for an accident.
Contact Us for Help with Your Rental Car Accident Case
If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident in which a rental car was in use, you can use the assistance of a skilled car accident lawyer. George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help you level the playing field against insurance companies’ competing interests, review all insurance policies, and explain your legal options. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation.