Rental Car Accidents in Victorville

Crashing a rental car can create more than just physical pain. It can also leave you confused about who is financially responsible. Between rental agreements, insurance coverage, and potential claims against other drivers, it can be hard to know what to do. If you were involved in a car crash as the renter or another party, understanding your rights is the first step toward protecting your health and your finances.

The experienced attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group help people sort through the confusion that comes with rental car accidents in Victorville.

Common Causes of Rental Car Accidents

Victorville’s growing traffic, nearby highways, and desert conditions all increase the risk of crashes for rental car drivers and locals alike. Some of the most common causes of accidents include reckless driving, distracted driving (including GPS use), fatigue, and unfamiliarity with local roads and rules. Even if the rental car driver was not at fault, being in a vehicle owned by a third party adds a layer of complexity to any insurance claim.

Who Is Liable After a Rental Car Crash?

Liability in a Victorville rental car accident depends on who was at fault and what kind of insurance coverage is available. In California, the driver who causes the crash is responsible for the damages. However, when a rental vehicle is involved, several types of coverage may come into play:

• Personal auto insurance: If the driver has a personal car insurance policy that extends to rental vehicles, this may provide primary coverage
• Rental car company insurance: Many rental companies offer supplemental insurance or damage waivers at the time of booking
• Third-party insurance: If another driver caused the crash, their liability coverage would typically be the first source of compensation

Because so many different policies could be involved, it is important to work with a lawyer who understands how to investigate the source of coverage and push back when insurers try to deny or limit a claim.

Recoverable Damages in Rental Car Accidents

Being in a rental car during a Victorville accident does not change the types of compensation someone may be eligible to receive. If someone else was at fault, the victim may be able to recover damages for:

• Medical bills, including emergency care, follow-up visits, and rehabilitation
• Lost income if someone’s injuries keep them from working
• Pain and suffering, including physical pain, mental distress, and trauma
• Property damage, including personal items lost or damaged in the crash
• Out-of-pocket costs, such as rental car fees, towing, or alternate transportation

Even the person who rented the vehicle may still have a valid personal injury claim, especially if another driver caused the accident.

Challenges in Rental Car Accident Cases

Rental car crashes in Victorville often involve additional challenges that can complicate a claim. There may be disputes over who had valid permission to drive the rental vehicle, and the rental company may attempt to shift blame or avoid liability. There may also be confusion about which insurance policy applies, especially if out-of-state drivers and insurance providers are involved.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed when facing pushback from multiple companies. A lawyer could help untangle the facts, handle the paperwork, and advocate for the full amount someone is entitled to.

Speak With a Victorville Lawyer if You Were Involved in a Rental Car Crash

Rental car accidents in Victorville can be stressful, but you do not have to handle the aftermath alone. A car accident lawyer from Walter Clark Legal Group could guide you through your legal options, help determine who is responsible, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free case review and take the first step toward getting answers and justice.