What to Do if You’re in a Car Accident while Driving a Rental Car
Car accidents are terrifying events that can leave you in a state of shock – with no idea about how best to protect yourself moving forward. If the car you were driving was a rental car, the matter is likely to be that much more confusing. If someone else’s negligence causes you to be injured in a rental car accident, you need the professional legal counsel of an experienced Nashville car accident lawyer in your corner.
Safety First
If you’ve been involved in a traffic accident of any kind, the first order of business is your own safety. If you’re driving a rental, this means all the following:
- Moving the vehicle to a spot that’s safely out of the line of traffic, if possible
- Calling the police, which is required when there is at least $400 worth of damage or if anyone was injured
- Seeking the medical attention you need, which may mean accepting care from the emergency med techs at the scene, being transported to the hospital, or getting checked out by your doctor – depending on the severity of your injuries
A Note About Your Condition After an Accident
The adrenaline rush you experience after being involved in a car accident can leave you reeling, and it can also mask the signs and symptoms that are trying to tell you you’ve been injured. In other words, don’t take it for granted that you escaped the accident unharmed. Erring on the side of caution and getting checked out by a medical professional is always advised. We search all insurance from every source and investigate everyone, including the rental car.
Consult an Accomplished Car Accident Attorney
If someone else leaves you injured in a rental car accident, you shouldn’t wait to discuss the matter with a savvy car accident lawyer. The fact that the vehicle isn’t your own adds an additional layer of complexity in relation to the property damage, and protecting your financial rights is key.
Alerting the Rental Car Company
You’ll also need to alert the rental car company regarding the accident. Each company has its own policies in place, but you’ll likely need to fill out an accident report. You can, however, expect the rental company to collect their damaged vehicle and provide you with another – as applicable.
Proving the Other Driver’s Fault
The way things go from here will come down to your ability to prove the other driver’s fault in the matter. This means gathering and skillfully compiling the available evidence, which is best left in the capable hands of your seasoned car accident attorney.
Primary forms of driver negligence include the following:
- Distraction
- Impairment
- Aggression
- Exhaustion
- Excess speed
- Failure to follow the rules of the road
An Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Nashville, TN, Can Help
The accomplished car accident attorneys at Raybin & Weissman – proudly serving Nashville – have earned a solid reputation for successfully guiding challenging car rental cases like yours toward favorable resolutions that support our clients’ rights and their rightful compensation. We search all insurance from every source and investigate everyone, including the rental car. We are on your side and here to help, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call us at 615-256-6666 today.