Driving a rental car can be a convenient solution when your personal vehicle is unavailable—whether you’re waiting on repairs or need a temporary ride. But getting into a crash while driving a rental can complicate an already stressful situation. If you’re involved in a car accident in a rental vehicle in Guyton or elsewhere in …
Driving a rental car can be a convenient solution when your personal vehicle is unavailable—whether you’re waiting on repairs or need a temporary ride. But getting into a crash while driving a rental can complicate an already stressful situation. If you’re involved in a car accident in a rental vehicle in Guyton or elsewhere in Effingham County, it’s crucial to know your rights and responsibilities. Taking the right steps after the crash and understanding how rental and personal insurance policies apply will help protect both your health and your claim.
An experienced car wreck lawyer can guide you through the process and work to maximize the compensation you may be owed.
What Steps Should I Take After a Rental Car Accident?
Accidents can happen even when you’re following the rules. If you’re involved in a crash while driving a rental vehicle, follow these steps:
- Call 911 immediately. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call emergency services. If anyone is hurt, let dispatchers know so they can send medical personnel.
- Move to a safe area. If you’re able, move the vehicle out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
- Get medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, allow EMTs to examine you. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Seeking care also creates a medical record that can support your injury claim.
- Document the scene. Take pictures of your injuries, the vehicles, the accident location, road debris, and any relevant surroundings. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. Request a copy of the police report when it becomes available.
- Exchange information. Share your name, license number, and insurance details with the other driver. Be polite, but don’t admit fault or apologize—it could be used against you later.
- Notify your insurance company and the rental agency. Contact both as soon as possible. The rental company will have a designated accident reporting procedure. Your insurance provider can walk you through the next steps and coverage details.
- Call a car wreck lawyer. A local attorney can help you determine liability, deal with the insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Whose Insurance Pays for a Rental Car Accident in Georgia?
Multiple insurance sources may be involved after a rental car crash. Which policies apply depends on who was at fault and what coverage was in place:
- Your personal auto insurance: If the crash was your fault and you carry rental reimbursement or collision coverage, your policy may cover vehicle damage or some of the rental fees—subject to your deductible and policy limits.
- The other driver’s insurance: If another motorist caused the crash, their liability insurance is responsible for covering damage to the rental and your other accident-related losses.
- Credit card rental coverage: Some credit cards offer secondary coverage for rental cars if you used the card to pay for the rental and declined the agency’s collision damage waiver (CDW). This coverage typically applies only to vehicle damage—not liability or personal injury.
- Rental car insurance: Rental agencies in Georgia require drivers to carry liability insurance. If you purchased additional coverage from the rental company (such as CDW or supplemental liability protection), it may apply depending on the type of damage and the terms of the policy.
How Long Do I Have to File a Rental Car Accident Claim in Georgia?
Under Georgia law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you miss this deadline, your case may be dismissed, and you could lose the right to recover any damages. A skilled car wreck lawyer can help you meet all necessary deadlines and build a strong case from the beginning.
Injured in a Rental Car Accident? Call the Guyton Car Wreck Lawyers at Kicklighter Law
Accidents involving rental vehicles can present unique legal and insurance challenges. If you were injured in a rental car crash, don’t navigate the claims process alone. The Guyton car wreck lawyers at Kicklighter Law will evaluate your case. To schedule a confidential consultation, call 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Our office is located in Springfield, Georgia, and we serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and throughout the surrounding communities.
