Who Pays When You’re Hit by a Rental Car?
Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but when the at-fault driver is behind the wheel of a rental car, things become even more complicated. Is the rental company liable? What about the driver’s personal insurance?
At Scholle Law, we help victims of rental car accidents navigate the confusing insurance process and fight for the compensation they deserve. If you were hit by a rental car, don’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you—we’re here to protect your rights.
Who Is Responsible for a Rental Car Accident?
Liability in a rental car accident depends on multiple factors, including whether the driver purchased rental insurance, who owns the vehicle, and whether negligence played a role. Potentially liable parties include:
🚗 The Rental Car Driver – If the driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent, they are personally liable for damages.
🏢 The Rental Car Company – Under federal law, rental car companies are not automatically liable for accidents caused by their customers, but they may be responsible if they rented out a defective or improperly maintained vehicle.
📑 The Driver’s Personal Auto Insurance – Many rental car drivers rely on their personal auto insurance policy to cover accidents. If they were at fault, their insurer may be responsible.
💳 Credit Card Rental Insurance – Some credit card companies offer rental car coverage, which may apply to property damage but not always bodily injury claims.
🛠 A Third Party (Manufacturer or Mechanic) – If a vehicle defect, brake failure, or poor maintenance contributed to the accident, another party may be held accountable.
At Scholle Law, we thoroughly investigate rental car accidents to determine which party—or combination of parties—is responsible for your damages.
What Happens If the Rental Car Driver Has No Insurance?
If the at-fault driver did not purchase rental insurance and has no personal auto coverage, you may still have options:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage – If you have UM coverage on your own insurance policy, it may cover your medical bills and lost wages.
- The Rental Company’s Basic Coverage – Some rental companies provide minimum liability coverage, which may apply depending on the rental agreement.
Even if insurance coverage seems unclear, Scholle Law can help you explore every option for compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A rental car accident can leave you dealing with unexpected medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial burdens. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
💰 Medical Expenses – Emergency treatment, hospital bills, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
🚗 Vehicle Repairs or Actual Cash Value for a Total Loss – Coverage for your damaged vehicle and rental car costs.
💼 Lost Wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover compensation for lost income.
💔 Pain and Suffering – Compensation for emotional trauma, PTSD, and reduced quality of life.
⚖️ Punitive Damages – If the at-fault driver was reckless—such as driving under the influence—you may be entitled to additional compensation.
At Scholle Law, we fight to maximize your recovery and ensure you aren’t left paying out of pocket.
Steps to Take After a Rental Car Accident
If you were injured in an accident involving a rental car, take these steps to protect your case:
1️⃣ Call 911 Immediately – Get a police report to document fault and vehicle details.
2️⃣ Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries like whiplash can appear later.
3️⃣ Exchange Information – Obtain the driver’s personal insurance info and rental company details.
4️⃣ Take Photos and Videos – Capture vehicle damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
5️⃣ Gather Witness Statements – Independent witnesses can support your claim.
6️⃣ Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement – Rental car insurance adjusters may try to lowball your compensation.
7️⃣ Contact Scholle Law – We handle all negotiations and legal proceedings while you focus on healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for damages if I was hit by a rental car?
Liability depends on whether the driver had personal insurance, purchased rental car coverage, or used a credit card with rental insurance. Scholle Law investigates all potential sources of compensation.
Can I sue the rental car company for an accident?
Rental companies are generally not responsible for their customers’ accidents unless they rented out an unsafe or poorly maintained vehicle.
What if the rental driver was uninsured?
If the rental driver had no valid insurance, you may be able to recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage.
How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?
You typically have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. However, rental car insurance cases can be complex, so it’s best to act quickly.
Call Scholle Law for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in an accident involving a rental car, don’t navigate the insurance maze alone. Call Scholle Law today at (866) 592-1296 or fill out the contact form on this page to schedule your free consultation.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until you win your case.
Let Scholle Law fight for the compensation you deserve.