Rental Car Accidents in Rancho Mirage

When renting a car, you are asked to choose whether to select additional insurance coverage. Renters could choose to rely on their own insurance coverage. However, while this will provide liability coverage, it might not cover the driver or any passengers in the event of an accident. Another option is to purchase supplemental policies, either through the car rental company or through third-party providers. Additionally, many credit card companies provide their own protection for those who rent cars.

Whether the driver is a local resident or a visitor, the aftermath of rental car accidents in Rancho Mirage can be extremely complicated. A knowledgeable auto accident attorney from Walter Clark Legal Group could help you understand your options.

What Causes Rental Car Wrecks?

Rancho Mirage rental car accidents rarely have a single cause. Instead, multiple causes may contribute to those wrecks, including:

• Driver negligence
• Lack of familiarity with the vehicle and its controls
• Improper maintenance
• Construction
• Lack of signage

Unfamiliar vehicles are the most common cause of these wrecks. A person who is unfamiliar with the car may have difficulty adjusting to its handling, braking, blind spots, or controls, increasing the likelihood of an accident, especially on highways and busy roads.

In addition, driver distraction is always a danger and perhaps even more so for rental cars. Their drivers are often unfamiliar with the area, and as a result, they may be more prone to distractions such as adjusting the GPS and looking at maps. Even a brief lapse in attention may result in a serious collision.

Some rental car drivers may take risks they would normally avoid in their own car, such as speeding and engaging in reckless driving. Both of these reduce reaction time and increase the severity of accidents.

Third parties can also contribute to these wrecks. If inadequate maintenance plays a role in a crash, the rental company may be held liable. Vehicle manufacturers and those responsible for maintaining city streets could also be responsible.

Liability and Insurance Considerations

Determining liability for a rental car accident may be more complex than a standard auto accident. Potentially liable parties include:

• Rental car driver
• Other drivers
• Rental car company
• Vehicle manufacturers
• Entity responsible for vehicle maintenance

In many situations, a combination of factors will contribute to the wreck. Under California’s pure comparative negligence structure, they may all share liability.

Insurance coverage may also play a significant role in determining compensation. Many rental car drivers rely on personal auto insurance, rental company insurance, or credit card–provided rental coverage. An experienced attorney in Rancho Mirage could help navigate these complexities and determine the best course of action after a rental car crash.

Meet With a Rancho Mirage Lawyer After a Rental Car Accident

Rental car accidents can lead to traumatic injuries, property damage, and more. Determining who is liable for the injuries and which insurance companies should pay can be complex.

Fortunately, you do not have to seek compensation alone. A seasoned attorney from Walter Clark Legal Group could help you in the aftermath of a rental car accident in Rancho Mirage. Schedule a free case evaluation to learn more about your options after one of these wrecks.