Crashed on Vacation? What to Do When You Get in a Rental Car Accident
Going on vacation is meant to be fun. The last thing you want is to get into a car accident, especially in a rental car in an unfamiliar place like Oregon. There were 45,295 crashes in Oregon during 2021, 552 of them fatal and 23,729 injury-causing. Sadly, accidents can happen anywhere at any time, so it's important to be prepared for what to do if you find yourself in a rental car crash while on vacation.
Assess the Situation
If you get into an accident in your rental car, whether it’s in Oregon or Florida, where there were 394,865 crashes in 2023, the first thing to do is assess the situation. Pull over to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and check the state of everyone involved. Call emergency services if anyone needs medical assistance. Otherwise, remain calm and try to gather information on the accident.
Exchange Information
Unless injuries prevent you from doing so, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the crash. Get their name, driver's license number, phone number, insurance details, and license plate. Also, provide them with your rental agreement and insurance information. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too for your accident report.
Call 911
Contact the local police to file an accident report. Provide details of the incident and any injuries or major damage. Get a copy of the police report for your records and for the rental company. Having an official report will help determine fault and liability for damages.
Contact the Rental Company
The rental car industry is worth $40.65 billion, so car rental companies know to account for accidents. Alert the rental car company of the accident as soon as you are able. Explain the situation and find out their procedures for handling accidents in rented vehicles. Find out if they have roadside assistance available to transport the damaged vehicle. Ask what information they will need from you regarding the crash for their documentation.
Review the Rental Agreement
Carefully review your rental agreement, especially the section on accidents, liability, and damage policies. Be aware of your financial responsibilities for damage to the rental car. The rental company may have you fill out additional paperwork regarding the accident. Refer to your rental paperwork to understand the claims process and your obligations.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Contact your personal auto insurance provider about coverage for rental cars under your policy. Find out what they require from you to file a claim. Your credit card used to rent the car may also provide some rental car coverage. Discuss your options so you can decide how to handle payments for damages.
Speak to a Car Accident Lawyer
Find a car accident lawyer. They can advise if you need representation to deal with injuries, damages, insurance claims, and liability disputes. An experienced attorney protects your rights and facilitates negotiations.
Getting into a car accident while on a relaxing vacation is frustrating. But staying calm, being prepared, and following these steps can help you handle the situation properly to resolve issues with the rental company and your insurance providers. Focus on getting back to enjoying your trip!
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