What to Do if You're Injured in a Rental Vehicle in Caldwell
Getting injured in a car accident, especially a rental car, is one of the most frightening experiences, especially when you are a hundred miles away from home. The struggle of injury, handling the after-moments of the accident, and working on insurance claims may be too much to handle. Whether you are a local in Caldwell or just visiting, knowing how to react after an accident is vital. Like many cities, Caldwell has its share of traffic collisions, and when a rental vehicle is involved, it invariably complicates the matter further. You may be unfamiliar with the local laws, the policy of the rental agency, or the nuances of insurance coverage. Added to that, the stress of the injury can cloud your judgment, making it difficult to make the best decisions when it really counts. This article will outline what to do if you are injured in an accident that involves a rental vehicle.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
It may be worth your time to speak with a personal injury lawyer in Caldwell in such a situation. A personal injury lawyer at this time specializes in personal injury law and will look at your case to determine what your legal options might be. They will stand by you when filing a claim against rental companies and insurance providers. They will gather the necessary evidence, including police reports and medical records; they may also seek the help of other experts in order for your case to be more viable.
Document the Scene
It is important that the accident scene be documented, as this might protect your rights and act as supportive evidence against any claim you are going to file. Your lawyer is best prepared to tell you what evidence is going to be relevant to your claim and how to document it. Take clear pictures of the scene first: wide shots of where the vehicles are, and close-up shots of any damage and injuries. Take note of the onlookers, and if they're willing, get their statements on what they have observed. Also, jot down some very useful information, such as the date, time, location of the accident, and any events that took place prior to the accident.
Notify the Rental Company
When contacting the rental company, it’s important to have your rental agreement and details about the accident readily available, including the police report. Your personal injury attorney can be very helpful with all of this. They will explain your responsibilities under the agreement. Most importantly, they can settle any disputes regarding damages or liability and will be there at all times to protect your rights.
Negotiate with the Insurance Company
The most challenging and paramount thing in getting compensation for your injuries and damages after an accident in a rental car is negotiating with the insurance companies. That begins with filing a claim, which the insurance company will investigate before making an initial offer-- a low-ball offer less than what you actually deserve. The key to good negotiation is preparation. Your personal injury attorney in Caldwell is very helpful at this time because they know the value of your claim and, hence, will negotiate well on your behalf. They will do all it takes to get a suitable settlement for you and see that you get what you deserve.
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