Rental car crashes can be complex, involving multiple parties such as rental companies, insurance providers, and negligent drivers. Whether you were driving a rental car or were involved in a crash with one, understanding your legal options is crucial. These options differ from the ones you have if the operator owned the vehicle, and not understanding those differences could leave you financially vulnerable.
You need a legal professional to establish liability and protect your rights. Our trusted car accident attorneys at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, & Bhaya understand the complexities of rental car accidents in Elsmere and can guide you through every step of the claims process.
Causes of Rental Car Crashes
While Elsmere rental car wrecks may have many causes, one of the leading ones is a lack of familiarity with the vehicle. Drivers may not be used to the rental car features, increasing their risk of error. Additionally, many people rent cars in areas they visit, increasing the chances of unfamiliarity with their surroundings. Looking at maps, searching for street names, and using GPS directions at new locations can increase accident risks.
Rental car mishaps also share causes with other traffic accidents. They include:
- Distracted driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Vehicle defects
- Poor maintenance
Some of these factors—such as reckless driving—increase the likelihood of the driver being held liable for an accident. Other factors—such as vehicle defects or poor maintenance—increase third-party liability. Post-wreck investigation and evidence collection at the scene can help lawyers and their teams determine who is responsible.
Parties Liable for Rental Auto Crashes
Several parties may be liable for rental car accidents in Elsmere. They include:
- Rental car driver
- Other drivers
- Rental car company
- Vehicle manufacturer
- Maintenance providers
Additionally, other third parties could be liable. For example, the city or county might be responsible if poor road maintenance, lack of appropriate signage, or road construction contributed to the wreck.
Another complication when determining liability is that rental car insurance rules are complex, and few drivers fully understand their insurance coverage. Generally, auto insurance policies offer liability coverage to their covered drivers in rental cars. However, they do not provide comprehensive coverage, even if the driver has a comprehensive policy. Some credit card companies may provide rental car coverage. Drivers can also pay for insurance through the rental car company.
Sometimes, three or more insurance companies may be responsible for the accident. While it might seem like that would increase the likelihood of a victim’s injuries being covered, the confusion can delay settlements. A seasoned attorney can work through the complexities of multiple insurance policies, ensuring adequate coverage for damages and accelerating settlements.
Damages Available After Rental Car Wrecks
After an Elsmere rental motor vehicle accident, an injured motorist may be entitled to the same economic and non-economic damages as motorists in other crashes. These damages can include:
- Past, present, and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
However, because of insurance-related complications in rental car wrecks, there may not be sufficient insurance coverage for injuries when the car driver is also the victim. In those cases, lawyers can seek information about potential third parties who may share liability for the collision.
Call a Rental Car Accident Attorney in Elsmere for Assistance
Rental car wrecks are not the same as other car crashes. While the injuries and after-effects may be similar, the insurance landscape surrounding such collisions differs greatly. Dealing with the legal process can be challenging, especially when you are recovering from severe injuries. Our experienced lawyers at Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, & Bhaya can navigate complex insurance processes related to rental car accidents in Elsmere. Schedule a consultation with us to learn more.