Vacations are supposed to be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, with around a third of Americans taking two or three vacations yearly. Many Americans travel within the US, and domestic leisure travel spending was $751 billion in 2021. In addition to this, 51 million international travelers visit the US each year.
While travel is fun, unexpected events can dampen the experience. Imagine getting into a car accident while driving a rental vehicle. That’s nobody’s idea of fun.
In this article, Matthew Minner, one of the top car accident attorneys in Bowling Green, KY, shares what to do if you find yourself in a rental car accident during your travels.
Assess the Car Accident
The first thing you should do after a car crash is to assess the situation and ensure everyone’s safety. Pull over to a safe location, such as the side of the road or a parking lot, and turn on your hazard lights. Check on all the passengers in both vehicles to see if anyone is injured and needs medical attention. Call the emergency services if necessary, and if it’s possible, contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Notify the Rental Car Company
There are 3,362 car rental businesses in the US. If you have a crash, the next step is to contact the rental car company. Inform them about the auto accident and provide details, such as the location, the extent of the damage, and whether the vehicle is drivable. The rental company will tell you what you should do next, including filing a police report and arranging for a replacement vehicle.
Get Evidence from the Car Accident
If you can, take photographs of the scene, including the damage to both vehicles, the positions of the cars, and any visible injuries. If possible, obtain the contact information of the other driver(s) involved and any witnesses who may have seen the incident. You’ll need this for an insurance claim and lawsuit.
Speak to a Car Accident Lawyer
The next step is always to contact a car accident lawyer. You should contact experienced local car accident attorneys before you contact your insurance company. Car accident lawyers can help you deal with the insurance company and protect your rights.
Understand Your Rental Car Coverage
Rental car agreements often include specific provisions regarding liability and damage coverage. Review the terms of your rental contract to understand your responsibilities and the coverage provided. Some rental companies may offer additional insurance options, such as collision damage waivers (CDW) or liability insurance, which can help protect you in a car crash.
Cooperate with Local Authorities
If the police have been called to the scene, cooperate. Provide a truthful and accurate account of the events leading to the car accident. Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the collision, as this could potentially impact the outcome of the investigation and any insurance claims.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently navigate the situation and minimize the impact on your vacation. Your vacation doesn’t need to be ruined by a minor car accident!
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