Rental cars offer convenient transportation to people on vacation, traveling for work, or when their vehicle is being repaired. While some people may purchase auto insurance from the rental company, many individuals choose to use their own policy. Navigating rental car accidents in Oakwood can be challenging for everyone involved, especially in the event of severe injuries.
The legal process for rental car accident claims is similar to that of standard vehicle collision cases in which you are the vehicle owner. A seasoned car wreck lawyer at Smith Hulsey Law could assist you in filing a claim and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
The rental car company may be liable for a car wreck if it occurred due to their negligence, such as renting unsafe or defective vehicles. However, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is often responsible for paying for the damage.
Like other vehicle collisions, liability for rental car crashes depends on who was at fault for the accident. The responsible party is generally responsible for covering any losses that resulted from the accident, including bodily injuries, property damages, and other financial losses.
After an accident, the first step a person should take is to pull over to a safe location to exchange information with the other driver. This information should include:
Suppose an individual does not sustain any severe injuries that require immediate medical attention. In that case, they can gather additional information that may help establish liability, such as photographs, witness statements, and the police accident report.
After a rental car collision, it is critical for individuals to contact their auto insurance agency to file a claim if they are at fault. However, if they were not responsible for the accident, they can file a claim with the liable driver’s car insurance company. Regardless of whether the renter caused the accident, they should notify their provider about the collision.
An attorney with experience handling rental car wrecks in Oakwood could determine the cause of the accident and communicate with a person’s insurance company on their behalf.
According to 49 United States Code § 30106, the Graves Amendment states that rental car companies are not generally liable for accidents caused by drivers leasing or renting their vehicles for less than 30 days as long as no negligence is involved. This legislation also extends to automobile dealerships that loan vehicles to their customers while they complete repairs or service vehicles.
However, the amendment does not protect negligent companies from liability if evidence shows that they rented dangerous, defective, or poorly maintained vehicles. A lawyer could answer questions about relevant legal statutes in Oakwood and help individuals obtain fair settlements after rental vehicle collisions.
Car crashes can be overwhelming, especially if there are rental vehicles involved. While it is important to understand the necessary steps to take after a rental car incident, seeking damages from an at-fault driver can be challenging without proficient legal guidance.
A hard-working lawyer could gather essential evidence to establish fault, handle communications with the insurance company, and fight for a fair settlement. Contact Smith Hulsey Law today to schedule a consultation and learn more about recovering damages after rental car accidents in Oakwood.
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