Whether you’re traveling for business, on vacation, or driving a rental while your car is being repaired, accidents can happen anytime even in a rental vehicle. Rental car accidents often involve additional legal and insurance complications that make them more challenging than typical collisions. If you’ve been injured in a rental car crash, knowing your rights is essential to protecting your claim.
Why Rental Car Accidents Are Different
Rental car accidents can raise unique issues because multiple insurance policies may apply, and liability can be disputed between the renter, the rental company, and other drivers. According to the California Department of Insurance, rental car coverage rules can vary depending on your policy, the rental agreement, and any additional coverage purchased. Learn more here: https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/95-guides/01-auto/rental-vehicle.cfm
Common Causes of Rental Car Accidents
- Distracted driving (GPS, phone use, adjusting controls)
- Unfamiliarity with the rental car’s features
- Driving in unfamiliar areas
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Poor road or weather conditions
- Negligent actions of another driver
Who Is Liable in a Rental Car Accident?
Liability depends on who caused the accident and what coverage is in place:
- The renter – if negligent driving caused the crash
- Another driver – if a third party was at fault
- The rental company – in rare cases where the vehicle was unsafe or poorly maintained
- Insurance providers – coverage may come from the renter’s personal policy, the rental company’s policy, or a credit card benefit
Insurance Coverage for Rental Car Accidents
In California, rental car accident coverage can come from several sources:
- Your personal auto insurance – often extends to rental cars, depending on your policy
- The rental company’s insurance – optional coverage you can purchase when renting
- Credit card rental coverage – available if you paid for the rental with a qualifying card
- The at-fault driver’s insurance – if another motorist caused the accident
Because these policies can overlap, insurance companies often try to shift responsibility to avoid paying.
Steps to Take After a Rental Car Accident
- Call 911 and get a police report
- Seek immediate medical attention for injuries
- Take photos and videos of the scene, damage, and rental car documents
- Notify the rental company as soon as possible
- Get contact and insurance details from all involved parties and witnesses
- Contact a California rental car accident lawyer before speaking to insurance adjusters
How Hillstone Law Can Help
Rental car accident cases can quickly become complicated, especially when multiple insurance companies are involved. At Hillstone Law, we identify all possible sources of coverage, handle the negotiations, and fight to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses.
If you’ve been injured in a rental car accident in California, let us handle the legal and insurance challenges while you focus on recovery.
