Driving a rental car is a new experience for most people and they are rarely used to the length, the speed and the general performance of the vehicle which they are in. When you first rent a car you will be given a range of insurance options and this can be incredibly confusing for most people. The majority of policies which people have for their own vehicle actually covers them when they are driving another car, but this doesn’t always cover a rental vehicle. Most people try to keep their rental car costs down, in taking basic insurance with the rental car provider.
If you are involved in a car accident when you are in a rental car, you may find that you need to consult a rental car accident lawyer for advice, and here is why that is going to be a smart move.
Coverage Confusion
Because of the way in which rental car companies structure their insurance policies, it can be tough to know what exactly you are covered for in the event of an accident. The only way in which you are covered for every aspect of the accident is if you have taken out all of the insurance options when you rent the car, which most people don’t do. For example you may be covered for the damage which is caused to the rental vehicle but not the other part. Alternatively you may be covered for all damage but not for personal injury. Consulting a lawyer will help you break down what you are liable for and to get advice as to how you should proceed.
Rental Car Company Error
When rental car companies break down the insurance coverage in this way, they have a duty to make you fully aware of what exactly you are signing up for. There is usually a document which you will have to sign that says you have been offered a certain type of insurance but rejected it. If the rental car company has failed to do this, you may not be liable for the accident or the damage which has been caused. Again a rental car attorney will help you get to the bottom of this.
On The Receiving End
Alternatively if you have been struck and injured by a rental car then you may not be aware of how to process a personal injury claim against the insurance company of the rental vehicle. In this instance it is always a great idea to contact a lawyer to find out how you can proceed in filing a case. Rental car companies have a different set of regulations to standard vehicle owners, which is why you will need the support of a lawyer to help you cut through the specifics and process your claim.
Any issue which you have involving a rental car, it is always best to seek the counsel of a specialist lawyer who can offer you their advice.