Hurt in a Rental Car Accident? Hillstone Law Has Your Back.

Rental car accidents are becoming more common across California’s crowded cities, tourist hotspots, and major airports. With more people renting vehicles for business trips, vacations, and daily transportation, our roads are increasingly filled with drivers unfamiliar with their surroundings—or even the vehicle itself. In these high-traffic environments, accidents can happen in a split second. When they do, having a trusted rental car accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. At Hillstone Law, we help victims hold negligent parties accountable and fight for the compensation they deserve.


The Rise of Rental Cars in California

The global car rental market is booming, with projected sales exceeding $108 billion in 2025 and rising through 2029. California, with its massive population and tourism economy, is a hub for rental car usage. Just look at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)—home to more than 20 rental car companies. And that’s only one part of the state. Other airports with heavy rental activity include:

  • John Wayne Airport (Orange County)
  • Hollywood Burbank Airport
  • Ontario International Airport
  • Long Beach Airport
  • San Bernardino International Airport

Add in major cities like San Diego, San Jose, Fresno, and San Francisco, and it’s easy to see why California has thousands of rental cars on the road at any given time—increasing the chances of a collision.


How Rental Car Companies Operate

With online bookings, loyalty programs, and nationwide locations, car rental companies make it easy for people to get behind the wheel. According to J.D. Power’s 2024 Rental Car Satisfaction Study, these were the top-ranked rental car brands:

  1. National
  2. Enterprise
  3. Sixt
  4. Advantage
  5. Alamo
  6. Hertz
  7. Ace
  8. Payless
  9. Avis
  10. Fox
  11. Thrifty
  12. Budget
  13. Dollar

Programs like National’s Emerald Club allow customers to skip the counter and select their own vehicle—putting even more rental cars into circulation with minimal oversight. This convenience can come at a cost when accidents occur.


What Is a Rental Car Accident?

A rental car accident involves any crash or collision where a rental vehicle is part of the incident. These cases often include:

  • Accidents caused by the rental car driver
  • Accidents caused by another driver while you were renting
  • Crashes involving defective or poorly maintained rental vehicles
  • Accidents involving tourists or out-of-state drivers

In each situation, multiple parties may be liable—from the rental driver, to the rental company, to the vehicle manufacturer. Hillstone Law’s attorneys will investigate every angle to determine fault and protect your rights.


Common Causes of Rental Car Accidents

Rental car accidents share similarities with regular crashes but also present unique risks. Common causes include:

  • Inexperienced drivers or tourists
  • Distracted or reckless driving
  • Mechanical failures due to poor maintenance
  • Road hazards or poor visibility
  • Confusion over advanced tech features (lane assist, emergency braking, etc.)

Today’s vehicles come with complex technology—especially EVs and hybrids—making it harder for drivers unfamiliar with these systems to react properly in emergency situations.


Why You Need a Rental Car Accident Lawyer

After a rental car crash, dealing with insurance companies, rental contracts, and liability disputes can quickly become overwhelming. At Hillstone Law, we step in to:

  • Investigate the cause of the accident
  • Communicate with insurance adjusters and rental companies
  • Analyze rental agreements for hidden liability clauses
  • Collect evidence and calculate the full extent of your damages
  • Pursue fair compensation through settlement—or in court if necessary

We seek full recovery for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages and reduced earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional trauma
  • Vehicle/property damage
  • Future care and rehabilitation

Insurance companies use well-known tactics to avoid payouts—Delay, Deny, and Defend. We won’t let them use those strategies against you.


Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve

Many people accept lowball settlements because they don’t realize what their claim is truly worth. At Hillstone Law, we help you make informed decisions. Our team knows how to navigate rental agreements, stand up to insurers, and fight for every dollar you’re owed. If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial to get the outcome you deserve.


Contact Hillstone Law for a Free Consultation

Rental cars are convenient—but when accidents happen, things can get complicated fast. Whether you were hit by a rental vehicle or injured while driving one, Hillstone Law is ready to fight for your rights.

📞 Call (310) 595-1222 today for a free consultation.
No fees unless we win.