No matter the reason for renting a car, the last thing people want to deal with is a car accident. Unfortunately, accidents are just as likely to happen in a rental car as in your own vehicle. If you got into an accident in a rental car, it’s helpful to have representation from an experienced Vernon car accident attorney.
When you rent a car, you are responsible for any damage or loss to the vehicle. Even if someone else causes damage to the rental vehicle, you are also personally liable for the loss. Your own auto insurance coverage may help pay for the damages.
When the Accident Isn’t Your Fault
You might worry about paying for damages to the rental after an accident. Most of the time, who pays for those damages will depend on the type of insurance you have and who was at fault for the crash.
If another motorist caused your accident, they will be liable for the damage caused. Your rental company will work with the other driver’s insurance company to resolve the claim. The rental company might charge you for the damages before the case is settled.
Rental car companies will attempt to recover all of their costs. After an accident in a rental car, you could face fees for:
- Claim processing fees
- Loss of vehicle value
- “Loss of use” while the vehicle is being repaired or replaced
Tell your Vernon car accident lawyer what the rental car company is attempting to charge you for. They can tell you what is acceptable. Remember that If you didn’t cause the accident, you shouldn’t have to pay for the damages.
If the rental car company charges you, you can recover that cost from the at-fault driver’s auto insurance. Unfortunately, insurance companies rarely fight fair. They will likely attempt to avoid liability for their insured’s actions. This is why hiring a seasoned Vernon car accident lawyer for help from the beginning is in your best interest.
Did Someone Hit Your Rental Car? Contact Berman & Russo Today
Rental car accidents are inherently complex. Many different parties and potentially many different insurance policies come into play. With the help of a well-versed Vernon car accident attorney, you can be sure that you don’t pay a penny more than you are legally required to pay. In fact, if the accident wasn’t your fault, you may not be required to pay anything or be entitled to reimbursement for what you have already paid.
Call 860-644-1548 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential rental car case review.