What Happens If You Get Into an Accident in a Rental Car?

Renting a car can be convenient when traveling, but what happens if you get into an accident while driving a rental vehicle? Many drivers are unsure about who is responsible for damages, what insurance covers, and what steps they need to take.

Accidents in rental cars can be more complicated than typical car crashes because multiple insurance policies may be involved, including your personal auto insurance, the rental car company's coverage, and even your credit card’s rental car protection.

In this guide, we’ll break down what to do after a rental car accident, how insurance works, and how to handle liability disputes.

What to Do Immediately After a Rental Car Accident

Just like with any other Green Bay car crash claim, your first priority after a crash in a rental car is safety. Follow these steps to protect yourself and ensure you handle the situation correctly.

1. Check for Injuries and Call 9-1-1

Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries.
If anyone is injured, call 9-1-1 immediately to request emergency medical assistance.
Even if injuries seem minor, it’s a good idea to get checked by a doctor, as some symptoms can appear hours or days later.

2. Move to a Safe Location

If possible, move the rental car out of traffic to avoid further collisions.
Turn on hazard lights and use safety cones or flares if available.

3. Call the Police

Always report the accident, even if it's minor. A police report provides an official record of the accident, which is crucial for insurance claims.
Provide factual information to the officer, but avoid admitting fault.

4. Exchange Information with the Other Driver

Collect the following details from all parties involved:

Driver’s name, address, and phone number
Insurance company and policy number
License plate number and vehicle description
Contact information for witnesses

5. Take Photos and Gather Evidence

Photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and road conditions.
Record statements from witnesses, if possible.
Take photos of your rental agreement, showing what coverage you opted for.

6. Contact the Rental Car Company

Report the accident to the rental car company immediately. Most companies have specific accident procedures outlined in the rental agreement.
Follow their instructions—they may require you to fill out an accident report or return the car to a specific location.

7. Notify Your Insurance Provider

Call your auto insurance company to report the accident.
If you used a credit card for the rental, check whether rental car insurance was included as a benefit.

Who Pays for Damages in a Rental Car Accident?

Liability in a rental car accident depends on who was at fault and what type of insurance coverage is available. Here are the different types of coverage that may apply:

1. Personal Auto Insurance

If you have full coverage auto insurance (liability, collision, and comprehensive), your policy may cover rental car accidents.
However, your policy might not cover certain fees, such as "loss of use" charges that rental companies charge when a vehicle is out of service for repairs.

2. Rental Car Company Insurance

Most rental companies offer optional coverage, including:

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): Covers vehicle damage and theft, but usually does not cover injuries.
Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): Covers damages to other people’s vehicles, injuries, and property damage if you cause the accident.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.

3. Credit Card Rental Insurance

Some credit cards offer secondary rental car insurance, meaning they cover only what your personal auto insurance does not.
Credit card coverage may not include liability protection, so check with your card issuer before relying on it.

4. The Other Driver’s Insurance

If another driver caused the accident, their insurance should pay for damages to the rental car and your injuries.
You may need to file a third-party claim against their insurance company.

What If You Are at Fault?

If you were at fault for the rental car accident, the financial consequences will depend on your coverage:

If you declined rental insurance but have personal auto insurance, your policy may cover damages.
If you don’t have personal auto insurance, you could be held personally responsible for repair costs, medical bills, and rental company fees.
If your credit card covers rental insurance, it might help cover the damages, but not liability costs.

What If the Rental Car Is Damaged but No Other Vehicles Were Involved?

If you damage a rental car without hitting another vehicle (e.g., by hitting a curb, pole, or wall), the same insurance rules apply:

If you purchased a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), the rental company will likely cover damages.
If you declined coverage, your personal insurance or credit card policy may be responsible.
You may also be charged additional fees, including administrative costs and “loss of use” fees.

How to Handle a Dispute with the Rental Car Company

Rental car companies often charge customers for damages even if they were not at fault. If you believe you are being wrongly charged:

Request documentation of the alleged damages.
Check your rental agreement for coverage details.
Contact your insurance company to dispute unfair charges.
Consult an Oshkosh vehicle accident lawyer if the rental company is demanding excessive fees.

How to Protect Yourself Before Renting a Car

To avoid financial risks in case of an accident, take these precautions before renting a car:

Check Your Auto Insurance Policy

Make sure your personal insurance covers rental cars and what types of damage it includes.

Understand Rental Company Insurance Options

If your personal insurance does not cover rentals, consider purchasing the rental company’s coverage.

Use a Credit Card with Rental Car Protection

Some credit cards provide collision and theft protection for rental cars.

Inspect the Car Before Driving

Take photos of any scratches or dents to avoid being charged for pre-existing damage.

Drive Cautiously and Know Local Traffic Laws

If you’re in a different state or country, research local traffic rules to avoid violations or accidents.

Getting into a rental car accident can be stressful, but knowing your rights and insurance options can help protect you from unexpected costs.

Key Takeaways:

Report the accident to the police, rental company, and your insurance provider.
Understand which insurance policy covers what—personal, rental, or credit card insurance.
Be aware of extra charges, like loss-of-use fees and administrative costs.
Dispute unfair charges if the rental company wrongfully holds you responsible.

By taking the right steps before and after an accident, you can minimize financial liability and ensure a smoother resolution.

If you need legal advice after a rental car accident, consult a car accident attorney to explore your options.

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