Free Consultation (210) 777-4878
if we don’t win, we don’t get paid. Free Consultation
Free Consultation
Villarreal & Begum Last Updated Date: June 3rd, 2021

Crashes in a Rental Car

rental cars

Most people don’t rent a car on a regular basis. However, accidents are bound to happen, even if you’re in a rental car.  You could be at increased risk since you are in an unfamiliar vehicle.  So, should you get the extra coverage the rental company offers? While it might seem like a good idea to get this extra coverage, you might not need it at all.

What They Offer

The big rental companies don’t simply offer an insurance plan that covers everything. They have different little packages to get more of your money. They might ask if you want roadside assistance, liability coverage, collision, and all the other plans you would normally see on your car insurance. The problem with this is that most of the time, you don’t need any of it. These rental service people are just salespeople. They often get a cut of whatever they manage to convince you to add on to your contract. Just like any other salesperson, they are trying to get your bill as high as possible, so they make the most money off of you.

Should I Buy It?

This depends on your situation. If you don’t normally drive, or don’t have your own insurance, you’re going to want to get their insurance. Chances are that if you don’t drive, you don’t have a car, and don’t have any auto insurance. If that is the case, you want some coverage. However, you don’t need to get your rental company’s insurance.  You can explore other options to make sure your rental car is covered. However, if you don’t plan on getting any extra insurance, make sure your current insurance policy for your car, covers rented vehicles. It’s important to double-check the details of your policy so you don’t get stuck flipping the bill for a car you don’t even own.

What if I get into an Accident?

The fact of the matter is that your rental company doesn’t care who’s at fault. They gave you the keys because you promised to turn their car back in the same condition you got it in. Even if you’re not at fault, the company will try to get paid by your insurance carrier. If you’re at fault, then whatever your insurance doesn’t cover, you’re on the hook for. Sometimes, these rental companies will even make you pay a fee for every day their car is in the shop being repaired. This is called a “loss of use fee.” Basically, it’s saying you have to pay for the potential profit they lose because they couldn’t rent out the car.

If you’re not at fault, it is important that you contact a personal injury attorney right away, especially if you have been hurt in the accident. Your attorney can help you get the fees charged by the rental company from the at-fault party. If you were not at fault, you may be entitled to compensation.

San Antonio Car Crash Lawyer.

Have you or a loved one been in a serious car crash and suffered injuries? If so, you should contact an experienced Personal Injury attorney. Villarreal and Begum is a local San Antonio firm that will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve. We serve clients all across Texas with offices in San Antonio, McAllen, and Laredo. We are available day and night to take your calls. Call or contact us via our website. The Law Guns will fight for you.