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I Got Hit By A Rental Car. What Are My Options?
Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough; but when the other driver is in a rental car, it can create additional questions about liability and insurance. Florida welcomes millions of tourists and visitors every year, which means locals are often sharing roads with drivers who don’t have experience navigating their communities. While many are self-aware enough to practice safe and defensive driving, accidents are still bound to happen. If you’ve been injured in a collision with a rental car driver, you want to know your options and how to recover compensation. Our Pinellas Park, FL car accident lawyer works with clients in these situations to help them understand their rights and pursue claims against all responsible parties.
Who May Be Held Responsible
When a rental car is involved in an accident, there are multiple parties that could potentially be held liable. The driver of the rental vehicle is typically the first responsible party if they were at fault.
However, liability may extend to the rental car company under certain circumstances, such as if the car was not properly maintained or if the driver was allowed to rent the vehicle despite being ineligible. It’s important to gather all relevant information to determine who is responsible for your damages.
Insurance Coverage Options
Rental car accidents often involve different insurance policies. The driver may have personal auto insurance that covers rental cars, or they may have purchased additional coverage through the rental company.
If the at-fault driver’s insurance limits are insufficient to cover your injuries and damages, your own insurance policy may offer supplemental coverage. We work to identify all available insurance policies and make sure your claim addresses every potential source of recovery.
Dealing With The Rental Company
In some cases, the rental car company itself may share liability. For example, if the vehicle had a mechanical issue that contributed to the accident, the company could be held responsible. Rental agreements can contain language about liability and insurance, so reviewing the contract carefully is important. We help clients collect the necessary documentation, including rental agreements and maintenance records, to support a claim involving the rental company.
Proving Damages
When you are injured by a rental car, documenting the impact of the accident is critical. Medical records, bills, proof of lost wages, and records of property damage all help establish the scope of your claim. Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can strengthen your case. Our team works with you to gather and organize this evidence so your claim accurately reflects the harm you have experienced.
Moving Forward With Your Claim
Cases involving rental cars can be complicated due to multiple parties and insurance policies. Working with an attorney can help you identify who is responsible, determine what coverage is available, and pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve. Our attorneys at Mickey Keenan P.A. can attest that careful documentation and timely action are key to achieving a successful outcome. If you were hit by a rental car, contact our Tampa firm to discuss your options and get help taking the next steps in your case. We offer free consultations and 24/7 phone assistance.