A car crash can be a stressful and disorienting experience, especially if the vehicle that hit you was a rental. The steps you take following an accident in Florida can significantly impact your ability to receive fair compensation for your injuries and protect your rights. Kevin L. Sullivan II understands the complexities that arise from accidents involving rental vehicles. This article will discuss the steps you should take after an accident, including dealing with insurance and the importance of hiring a lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve.
When you are hit by a driver in a rented car, the situation differs from a typical accident. It’s important to understand these differences to handle the aftermath properly. Each step is crucial, from assessing immediate injuries to dealing with insurance and rental companies.
Immediate Actions After an Accident
Assess Injuries and Ensure Safety
Your safety and the well-being of everyone involved should be your first concern after a car accident. Check for injuries in yourself and others. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you think the injury is minor, seek medical attention, as some symptoms can appear hours or even days later.
Contact Law Enforcement
Always file a police report, regardless of the severity of the accident. The police will collect statements from witnesses and involved parties and document the accident scene. This report is a crucial piece of evidence in insurance and legal proceedings to determine fault and responsibility.
Exchange Information and Document the Scene
While waiting for the police to arrive, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Make sure to note the name of the rental company and get a copy of the rental agreement. Also, collect the contact information of any witnesses. Use your smartphone to take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles, visible damage, and road conditions. Visual evidence is critical for your case.
Seek a Legal Consultation with Kevin L. Sullivan II
After addressing immediate safety concerns, contact Kevin L. Sullivan II to schedule an initial consultation. Our experience in handling accidents involving rental vehicles can be a key advantage. We can help you with initial legal considerations, preserve evidence, and provide guidance on contacting rental and insurance companies. Early legal advice ensures your rights are protected from the start, building a strong foundation for your claim.
Rental Car Companies’ Liability for Their Customers’ Actions
Basics of Rental Car Insurance
Understanding insurance coverage is essential if you are involved in an accident with a rental car. Rental cars typically come with basic insurance coverage, and the renter may choose to purchase additional coverage. It’s important to know if the driver who hit you has additional insurance, as this can affect the claims process. Your lawyer can help you understand these details and determine their impact on your case.
Role of Rental Companies in Accidents
Rental car companies are generally required to maintain their vehicles in a safe condition. If an accident is caused by a vehicle failure due to poor maintenance, the rental company may be liable. Kevin L. Sullivan II will investigate maintenance records and any other relevant documentation to establish liability, potentially opening another avenue for compensation.
Determining Liability in Rental Car Accidents
Liability in rental car accidents can be complex. It involves understanding Florida’s laws on rental cars, the interaction between personal insurance policies, rental agreements, and identifying all parties liable, including the rental company. We have the experience to help you navigate these complexities. To establish liability, we thoroughly examine all factors, including driver error and vehicle maintenance.
This post was written by a professional at Kevin L. Sullivan II. Attorney Kevin L. Sullivan II is your car accident lawyer Gibsonton FL, and the best personal injury attorney near you for LeavenLaw. Kevin is proud to serve Florida accident victims that have been injured in auto accidents, motorcycle accident, slip and falls or have suffered any other type of injury caused by negligence. Kevin offers a FREE no-obligation consultation to discuss your claim. There are NO upfront fees or costs and if he does not collect for you, you do not owe him anything.
