If you are involved in a Texas accident in a rental car, you likely have questions about what happens if you wreck a rental car and how it differs from getting in an accident in your personal vehicle. Fortunately, getting in a car rental crash isn’t much different than any other type of accident, and you can still seek compensation for your injuries from the at-fault party.
Here are the steps you should take if you are involved in a car accident in a rental car:
Check for Injuries and Ensure Everyone’s Safety
The first step to take after any accident is to move to a safe location off to the side of the road and check yourself and others involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call the police and request an ambulance. Even if you initially feel fine, it’s often a good idea to still get checked by a medical professional after an accident in case your adrenaline is masking internal injuries.
Contact the Police and File an Accident Report
Under Texas law, those involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage of at least $200 must report the accident to the police. Even if there don’t appear to be injuries and/or serious property damage, you can call the police department’s non-emergency number to have an officer come out to file an accident report.
Gather Documentation at the Scene
Before leaving the scene, take photographs of the damaged vehicles, their positions, the road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. You should also exchange insurance information with the other driver and get the contact information of any witnesses. You might be wondering, “Does the at-fault driver pay for a rental car in Texas?” They might, eventually, so it’s helpful to have their insurance information so you can seek reimbursement down the line.
Notify the Rental Car Company and Your Insurance Provider
It’s essential that you report the accident to both the rental car company and your insurance provider. When you contact the rental company, they’ll provide instructions for what to do next. If you purchased auto insurance through them, they can help you get started with your claim.
Even if you purchased rental car insurance, you should report the accident to your insurance provider in case you or the other driver needs to file a claim with them.
Find Out Who Pays for the Damages
Determining who pays for the damages after a rental car accident depends on who is at fault and the insurance of the parties involved. Since Texas is an at-fault state, the at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers the other party’s medical expenses. How much does it cost if you damage a rental car will depend on the severity of the damage, whether you purchased optional insurance, and whether the at-fault driver is found responsible for the accident.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer to Understand Your Legal Rights
Since rental car accidents can involve multiple insurance policies, rental agreements, and liability disputes, speaking with a car accident lawyer in New Braunfels, TX can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Attorney Troy Burch has practiced law in New Braunfels, Texas since 1990, representing residents of New Braunfels and the surrounding communities. He graduated with high honors from Texas Christian University and Baylor Law School. Contact Burch Law Firm for a free consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer about your case.
