Insurance protects individuals in all vehicle accidents, regardless of fault. It allows accident victims to claim compensation from the at-fault party’s insurer. Inadequate coverage can create challenges for everyone, especially if the accident involves a rental vehicle.
Rental car accidents in San Bernardino are complicated for both parties, whether at fault or not. You should understand your available insurance options when renting a vehicle. When you are involved in an accident in a rental vehicle, a hard-working car accident attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve or protect you from paying out of pocket for someone else’s losses.
Understanding Rental Car Insurance Policies
Basic liability coverage is mandatory for all vehicle owners in San Bernardino, so rental car companies will also offer insurance. Most often, rental insurance options include:
- Supplemental liability protection
- Personal accident insurance
- Personal effects coverage
- Roadside assistance
- Collision damage waivers
However, drivers may be able to opt out of using the rental company’s insurance coverage. Some credit card companies offer property damage when using their card to pay for the rental, meaning individuals may not need to buy it through a rental agreement. Drivers may also opt out of a rental company’s insurance if their current liability policy covers rental vehicles.
Every driver must do their part to ensure coverage, whether using a traditional rental agency or a Personal Vehicle Sharing Program (PSVP). When the basics are not covered, payment for medical bills and damaged property could ultimately come out of the driver’s pocket.
What to Do After a Rental Car Accident
Knowing what to do after a rental car accident in San Bernardino is never easy. There are steps to take to ensure everyone’s rights are protected and that everyone is safe. The involvement of a rental vehicle does not change the steps parties must take. These steps include:
- Stopping and making sure everyone involved is okay
- Calling 911
- Attempting to find the other party if their property was damaged, but they were not involved
- Documenting the accident scene or circumstances
- Contacting the insurance company
Involved parties must file the SR-1 form with the DMV within ten days of an accident that incurs more than $1000 in property damage or if there are injuries or deaths. An insurance agent, legal representative, or the individuals involved in the accident can file the SR-1. An attorney at Valero can handle this task as a legal representative and help an injured client avoid undue stress.
Contact an Attorney After a Rental Car Accident in San Bernardino
Rental vehicle accidents are always complicated because fault must be determined and unclear insurance policies can leave gaps. Rental car companies will not help you cover the expense unless you can prove they were vague in explaining insurance requirements or that they provided you with an unsafe vehicle.
If you were injured in a rental car accident in San Bernardino, know that we are here to support and fight for you in all personal injury cases. We will come to you so you can focus on healing, and we only get paid if you win your case. Contact us, and we will do all we can to help you through this stressful time.
Valero Law Group
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