What to Do If You Have an Accident in a Rental Car

Getting into an accident in a rental car statistically happens more often than in vehicles that we own, according to studies. In fact, the high number of crashes for drivers under 25 means those motorists often pay higher rental fees. You might wonder who is responsible for damages, or how car insurance coverage applies in these situations. Understanding the steps to take after a rental car accident can help you protect your rights and avoid unexpected fees.

From documenting the accident to reporting it to the rental car company, it’s critical to understand your rights and responsibilities. Here’s what to do if you get into an accident in a rental car, along with tips on how to avoid unexpected costs.

What Happens if You Damage a Rental Car? Key Takeaways

• Rental car companies may charge you for repairs unless you have coverage through a collision damage waiver, personal insurance, or credit card issuer benefits.
• Your own auto insurance may provide coverage for rental car accidents, but it’s important to confirm that information beforehand.
• Always report the collision to the rental car company promptly and follow their instructions for filing an accident report.
• Reading your rental car agreement and insurance policies ahead of time can help you avoid any unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

5 Steps to Take Immediately After a Rental Car Accident

Dealing with an accident in a rental car is easier if you know what steps to take immediately afterward. Keeping this article handy when you’re on vacation or traveling for work can help you stay calm and streamline the claims process. Follow these five steps to:

• Ensure your safety and that of anyone else in your vehicle
• Preserve crucial evidence for filing insurance claims
• Simply the reporting process for both the rental provider and your own insurance company

1. Make Sure Everyone Is Okay and Contact Local Police

Safety should be everyone’s priority following any traffic accident. Check yourself, your passengers, and any others involved in the crash for injuries. If someone at the scene of your car accident needs medical care, call 911 immediately.

Move all vehicles to the side of the road if it’s safe to do so. Otherwise, leave them where they are if the accident is serious or anyone’s hurt. Clearing the area reduces the risk of causing additional accidents or making the road hazardous for other drivers. If there’s a fire risk or leaking fuel, calmly evacuate the area immediately. Using caution and prioritizing safety protects everyone and ensures first responders can assist without added complications.

Finally, call local police and report the collision as soon as possible if anyone has a visibly damaged vehicle. Many state laws require this step, and it helps you secure a police report for the rental car company, too.

2. Exchange Contact Information with All Involved Parties

After confirming everyone’s safety, exchange essential details with other involved vehicle drivers and their passengers, if applicable. Important info you’ll need to write down should include:

• Names of everyone involved in your accident, including the other driver and any passengers
• Phone numbers and email addresses so the insurance company can follow up as needed
• Car insurance information, including insurer’s names policy numbers for all affected drivers
• Vehicle registration and license plate numbers
• Driver’s license details (i.e., state, address, DL number, legal name, and expiration date)
• Also, note each involved vehicle’s license plate number

Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later to assign liability. If there are witnesses, collect their contact info as well. Being polite and cooperative is important, but limit any discussions to share only facts. Wait for law enforcement to arrive if necessary, as they may gather additional details and create an official accident report to include with everyone’s insurance claims.

3. Take Pictures and Document the Scene

Thorough documentation of how, when, and where your accident occurred is crucial for filing auto insurance claims. Use your phone to take clear photos or video footage of all the following, if possible:

• Damage to all vehicles involved in your accident
• License plates
• The accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries

Write down or record a voice note describing other important details the car rental company will want to know, like:

• The exact location where your crash occurred
• Approximate time when the accident happened
• Any contributing factors that you believe may have led to the accident, like weather, lighting, texting, alcohol, etc.

These photos, videos, and notes provide valuable evidence for your claim and also help insurers determine liability. Keep your documentation organized and ready to share with claims adjusters or the rental car company as required.

4. Contact the Car Rental Company to Let Them Know What Happened

Notify the rental car company immediately after the accident occurs. Most agreements include an emergency contact number, often found in the glove box or on your rental contract. Follow their instructions carefully, as they may require you to complete an accident report form. Rental companies may also provide guidance on:

• Whether you should try to return the rental car (if it’s drivable) or tow it somewhere if it’s not
• Next steps, such as filing an incident report with the company or where to pick up another rental car (if applicable)

Promptly notifying the rental company ensures compliance with their policies and prevents unnecessary delays or additional costs.

5. Contact Your Own Car Insurance Policy Provider

Reach out to your personal insurance provider to report the accident and start your claim. Confirm whether your auto insurance policy includes rental cars and understand your coverage limits and deductible amount.

If you purchased additional insurance from the rental agency or used a credit card with rental benefits, give these details to your insurer. They will guide you on how to proceed and coordinate with the rental company. Timely communication with your own insurance provider can help resolve any liability issues right away.

What to Expect When You Get In A Rental Car Accident

Accidents in rental cars can bring additional layers of complexity, from insurance questions to handling repair costs. Whether you’re at fault or not, knowing what to expect can help you navigate the aftermath effectively with confidence. Here’s what you need to know based on fault determination.

What If You Weren’t at Fault and Another Driver Caused Your Rental Car Accident?

When another driver’s responsible, their liability insurance coverage typically pays for rental car repairs and any other expenses. However, the rental company may charge you upfront for repair costs or loss-of-use fees while the car is out of service. In such cases, you’ll need to seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. Provide detailed documentation that supports your claim to the rental agency’s insurance company, including:

• Police report (if law enforcement was on the scene of your accident)
• Photographs of the damaged vehicle
• Witness statements, along with each person’s contact info

Be prepared for potential delays as different insurance companies negotiate settlements. If you have complications, an auto accident attorney can help get you fair and full compensation for your injuries.

And if You WERE at Fault for Your Rental Car Accident…

If you’re found at fault, your financial responsibility depends on your rental car insurance coverage. If you purchased a collision damage waiver (CDW) from the rental agency, it will likely cover repairs. However, some exclusions (such as reckless driving) may apply.

When filing on your personal auto insurance, your collision coverage may handle repair expenses after you pay your deductible. Major credit card insurance benefits, if applicable, can also help cover costs, though they typically serve as secondary coverage. Additionally, rental companies might charge fees for loss of the vehicle’s value or use while it’s in the shop getting fixed. Unfortunately, insurance doesn’t always cover these types of administrative fees.

What Is Rental Car Coverage? Understanding how Rental Car Company Insurance Works

Rental car insurance provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to the vehicle. Whether you rely on your personal auto policy, credit card company benefits, or rental car coverage, understanding what’s available can help you avoid unexpected expenses.

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). Covers the cost to repair or replace your damaged or stolen rental vehicle. However, CDWs typically exclude liability for damage to other vehicles, reckless driving incidents, or unauthorized drivers.
• Personal Accident Insurance. Provides medical coverage for you or your passengers’ injuries after an accident. This type of coverage can help pay for medical expenses or emergency services.
• Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI). Offers additional liability coverage for damage you cause to other people’s property or vehicles. This supplements your existing auto insurance policy or fills the gap if you don’t have liability coverage.
• Personal Effects Coverage. Protects any damaged or stolen personal belongings inside the rental car at the time of the incident. This coverage may overlap with your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policy, but can be useful in some cases.
• Credit Card Benefits. Some credit cards provide coverage for rental car damage as part of their benefits. This often counts as secondary coverage, meaning it reimburses costs your primary insurance won’t pay for. It usually excludes liability coverage and might require you to decline the CDW from the rental car company.

Before renting a car, review your own vehicle insurance information and credit card terms to ensure you have enough coverage. Choosing additional rental car coverage might be worth it if your existing policies don’t cover those vehicles.

Hurt in a Rental Car Accident? Find Out If You’re Eligible for a Payout

Injuries from rental car accidents can result in costly hospital bills, lost wages, and ongoing medical expenses. If another driver caused your crash, then their insurance might cover your losses. In some cases, your own insurance or the rental company’s personal accident coverage policy may apply. However, the more complex your claim is (and the more vehicles involved), the harder it usually is to reach a fair settlement.

An experienced auto accident attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. Lawyers can negotiate with insurers, identify all liable parties, and guide you through the claims process. Don’t leave money on the table — contact a trusted attorney today for free to explore your options.