What Happens When You Wreck a Rental Car?
Wrecking a rental car can be stressful, and many drivers are unsure what happens next. Whether you were at fault or someone else caused the crash, rental companies follow strict rules about damage, insurance, and responsibility.
Understanding how these rules work can help you figure out your next steps after a wreck in Huntsville or anywhere in Alabama.
Determine Whose Insurance Applies
Several types of insurance may cover damage to a rental car. Which one applies depends on what coverage you have and how the crash occurred.
Your personal auto insurance
Most personal auto policies extend coverage to rental cars. This usually includes liability coverage for injuries and property damage. Collision and comprehensive coverage may also apply, depending on your policy.
The rental company’s insurance
Rental companies often sell optional coverage, such as:
- Loss damage waivers
- Collision damage waivers
- Supplemental liability insurance
If you purchased any of these, they may cover or reduce your financial responsibility.
Credit card rental coverage
Some credit cards offer secondary rental car coverage if you use the card to book the car. Coverage varies widely and usually applies only if you decline the rental company’s insurance.
The at-fault driver’s insurance
If someone else caused the crash, their liability insurance should cover damage to the rental and any injuries you suffered.
What You Owe if You Were at Fault
If you caused the crash, the rental company may charge you for:
- The cost of repairs
- Loss of use (the rental company’s lost income while the car is being repaired)
- Administrative fees
- Towing and storage
- Diminished value
Insurance may cover these costs, depending on your policy. If you declined the rental company’s damage waiver, you may be responsible for paying out of pocket until your insurer reimburses you.
What Happens if Someone Else Hits Your Rental Car
If another driver caused the crash, their insurance should cover:
- Repairs to the rental car
- Loss of use
- Your medical expenses
- Other crash-related damages
However, rental companies often charge your card first and wait for reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer. This can create delays, but your own insurance may help speed up the process.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
To protect yourself, gather as much information as possible at the crash scene.
Useful evidence includes:
- Photos of the vehicles
- Photos of damage
- Names and contact details of witnesses
- Insurance information from all drivers
- A copy of the police report
This documentation helps resolve disputes about fault and coverage.
What Happens if You Break the Rental Agreement
Rental companies can deny coverage under their waivers if you violated the rental agreement.
Common violations include:
- Driving under the influence
- Letting an unauthorized driver use the vehicle
- Off-road driving
- Using the car illegally
If coverage is denied, you may be responsible for the full cost of the damage.
What to Expect From the Rental Company
After a crash, the rental company may:
- Charge your credit card for damage
- Send you a repair estimate
- Bill you for loss of use
- Contact your insurer for payment
Some companies also charge “admin fees” related to claim processing. These vary by rental company.
Report the Crash Immediately
If you wreck a rental car, the first step is reporting the accident.
You should notify:
- Local law enforcement
- The rental company
- Your insurance provider
Most rental agreements require you to report accidents right away. Alabama gives injured people two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to report the crash could lead to extra fees or coverage problems later.
Contact Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Dealing with a rental car accident can feel overwhelming. You shouldn’t have to navigate these challenges alone. An experienced attorney can explain your rights, protect you from unfair charges, and make sure you pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been involved in a rental car accident in Alabama, Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help. Our team can guide you through every step of the claims process and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can support you during this difficult time.
Contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today.
We serve Shelby County, Madison County, Montgomery County in Alabama, and its surrounding areas. We are located in Birmingham, Huntsville & Montgomery.
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Birmingham Office
880 Montclair Road, Ste 300,
Birmingham, AL 35213
(205) 973-6417
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Huntsville Office
116 Jefferson St. Suite 207
Huntsville, AL, 35801
(256) 781-9242
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Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Montgomery Office
7 Clayton St, Suite 200,
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 518-6098
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