What Happens if I Crash a Rental Car in Florida?
Rental cars are common in Florida. They are convenient for tourists, visitors, and residents who need temporary vehicles. Unfortunately, rental car accidents happen. Therefore, knowing what to do if a crash occurs in a rental car in Florida is essential.
The moments after a car crash are confusing. When you are driving a rental car, additional questions may be on your mind. You may think, “Who is liable for the damage to the rental car?” or “Will insurance cover damages for a rental car accident claim?”
Knowing what to do after a rental car accident can help you protect your rights. Steps to take after a crash in a rental car include:
It is also wise to contact a Florida car accident lawyer. Rental car accident cases are complicated personal injury claims. One or more parties may be liable for damages.
Furthermore, insurance and personal injury laws can be confusing, especially when a rental car is involved in a head-on crash or other accident. An attorney’s advice and guidance can help you recover the compensation you deserve and defend you against contributory fault allegations.
There could be an overlap in insurance coverage for rental cars involved in head-on crashes and other collisions. Your personal car insurance policy may cover some damages for a rental car accident. Some credit card companies offer insurance coverage if you use the car to rent a vehicle. Additionally, car rental agencies offer several insurance options you can purchase when renting a vehicle.
The different types of insurance coverage that could apply in a rental car accident include:
Insurance coverage for a rental car accident can be confusing. A clause in the policy’s fine print could result in no coverage for the accident. Experienced Florida rental car accident lawyers understand the complex nature of these policies. An attorney can review each insurance policy to determine which policies apply in your case.
Florida is a no-fault state for car accidents. Therefore, minor injuries are covered by PIP insurance. However, an at-fault driver could be liable for your economic and non-economic damages if your injuries exceed the serious injury threshold.
Other parties could also be liable for damages caused by rental car accidents. The rental car company could be liable if its negligence led to the accident, or the car manufacturer could be responsible for defective car parts.
If you need help proving who is liable for a rental car accident, talk with a Florida car accident lawyer and learn about your legal options during a free consultation.