Getting into an Accident in a Rental Car Over the Holidays

Scartelli Olszewski P.C.

The holidays often mean travel, family visits, and hotel stays. Holiday travel might also mean rental cars. You fly into town to visit friends and family, but you don’t want to have to rely on borrowing mom’s car so you do the logical thing, you rent one. But what happens if you crash a rental car or if someone crashes into your rental car?

If you’re injured or the vehicle is damaged while driving a rental in another city or state, the legal and insurance consequences become more complex.

Here’s what you need to know before you head out, and if the worst happens.

Rental Cars Can Come with Added Risk

You’re likely driving an unfamiliar vehicle, in unfamiliar territory, maybe in heavy traffic, winter weather, or over holiday weekends when accidents spike. With a rental car, the usual rules apply but with extra layers.

Before renting a car, check your automobile policy or contact your insurance company to find out what type of rental coverage is included in your auto policy and whether purchasing extra automobile coverage from the rental company is worthwhile. Do not assume you are fully covered under your automobile policy. Also check with your credit card company if you use your credit  card to pay for the rental car to see what coverage may be included and excluded.

The Immediate Steps After a Holiday Rental Car Crash

Even though rental vehicle accidents follow many of the same protocols as your own car in an accident, you must add some extra steps:

• Ensure safety and call 911. Injuries need immediate medical attention. A police/accident report is critical.
• Take photos and get information from all drivers and witnesses, if possible.
• Notify your automobile insurance company and the rental car company. Most rental contracts require immediate reporting. Failing to do so may void your coverage.
• Consult with a personal injury attorney about your legal rights. We are here to help.
• Preserve evidence and your claim.

Holiday travel should be about rest, family, and joy, not dealing with the aftermath of a crash in a rental car. But if you find yourself in that unfortunate situation, the stakes are higher. Because you’re dealing with a rental vehicle, possibly away from home, and navigating cross-jurisdictional issues, the legal path becomes more complex.

If you were injured, or your vehicle damaged, while driving a rental car during the holidays in or around Northeastern Pennsylvania, you don’t have to go it alone. Let our team of attorneys at Scartelli Olszewski, P.C. guide you through the complexities involved so you can focus on your recovery, and we will fight for the monetary compensation you deserve. Call us at (570) 346-2600 today to schedule your free consultation.