Renting a car is a great way to get around when you’re on vacation or travelling for business. But what happens if you’re in an accident? Here’s what you need to know about what to do if you’re in an accident while renting a car.
Pull Over & Turn On Your Hazard Lights
If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident while driving a rental car, you know how stressful and confusing the situation can be. While it can be hard to think clearly in that moment, there’s one important step you should take immediately: safely pull your car over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. This allows other drivers to more easily identify that you have been in an accident and helps ensure everyone on the road is aware of the situation. Although pulling over may not seem like much at first, it can prove invaluable for both your safety, as well as other drivers around you.
Exchange Information With The Other Driver
No one ever expects to be in a car accident, but unfortunately, they are unpredictable occurrences that happen every day. It may be unnerving, but it is important to stay calm and collected while you get out of the situation safely. After ensuring everyone involved is safe and sound, you’ll want to take a few steps to handle things properly later. Exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident, including their name, contact information and insurance details. Getting all of this down can save you time and hassle when it comes time to turn in an official accident report or work with insurance companies.
Take Photos Of The Damage To Both Vehicles In The Accident
Taking photos of a car accident is essential for insurance companies and businesses in settlement negotiations. Not only can images prove fault or identify contributing factors, but they can also give a complete picture of the extent of damage caused by an accident. This is why taking pictures of both vehicles is important—even if one appears relatively undamaged.
Taking photos from multiple angles can help provide detail that may not be easily visible. It can also enhance any miscellaneous damage that may be small-scale but still needs to be addressed. High-quality images can make all the difference in the case of theft or vandalism claims, so make sure these photos are well-composed and clear!
Contact Your Rental Car Company & Inform Them About The Accident
When you have a rental car accident, it can be a scary and overwhelming experience. The best thing to do is to stay calm, assess potential damages and ensure everyone involved is safe.
Once all involved are safe, contact your rental car company right away. They will be able to tell you what the next steps are and guide you through the process. It’s important not to wait or delay getting in touch with them, as this could put the resolution of your claim at risk. Though it may seem intimidating to reach out following an accident, in most circumstances, the company will be there to help support you every step of the way.
You May Need To Get Your Own Insurance Involved Or File A Police Report
Subject to the policy of your rental car company, you may have additional responsibilities to fulfil after an accident. If you find yourself in an accident while driving a rental car, you might need to involve your own insurance provider or even file a police report as part of the process. It’s best to be prepared ahead of time so that you know what steps to take and what your rights are in terms of coverage. Be sure to do some research and talk with professionals if you have any questions.
Follow Up With Your Rental Car & Insurance Company Until Everything Is Resolved
When renting a car, it’s very important to know what your insurance covers and the rental company’s policies. After an accident, you should follow up with both the rental car company and your insurance provider to make sure you don’t end up paying for damages out of pocket. It may take several phone calls, emails or visits to get all the paperwork sorted and the situation resolved. Don’t hesitate to follow up until all your questions are answered and everything is settled—it will save you from any surprise charges later on.
If you find yourself in an accident while driving a rental car, don’t panic. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be fine. Remember, if you have any questions or need help along the way, All Day Car Rentals is always available to assist you. Give our friendly team a call today on (07) 4031 3348.
