Imagine you're driving home from work one evening when a car speeds through a red light and slams into the side of your vehicle. You suffer severe injuries and are rushed to the hospital. When you finally have a chance to catch your breath and assess the situation, you realize that the driver who hit you was driving a rental car and their insurance coverage is not sufficient to cover your damages. As a victim in this situation, you may be wondering if the car rental company can be held liable for the accident. The answer depends on the circumstances.
Below, we’ll explore situations when car rental companies may be held liable in a car accident case and discuss how victims can seek compensation.
If the Rental Car Was Not Properly Maintained and This Contributed to the Accident
It’s the responsibility of the owner of a vehicle, whether it’s a personal or rental car, to ensure that their vehicle is in good condition and properly maintained. If a rental car company neglects to properly maintain their vehicles and this contributes to an accident, they may be held liable for any injuries and damages that result.
If the Rental Car Company Rented the Car to Someone Who Was Not Legally Allowed to Drive
Some car rental companies may prioritize their profits over the safety of their customers and the general public. If a rental car company rents a car to someone who is not legally allowed to drive and this person causes an accident, the rental car company may be held liable for the damages and injuries that result.
Rental Car Tips to Remember: How to Avoid Accidents
Choose a reputable rental car company: Make sure to do your research and choose a rental car company with a good track record. Avoid companies with a history of negligent maintenance or renting to unqualified drivers.
Check the condition of the car before you rent: Before you take possession of the rental car, make sure to thoroughly inspect it for any damages or maintenance issues. If you notice any problems, bring them to the attention of the rental car company before you take the car off the lot.
Follow the rules of the road: As a driver, it’s your responsibility to follow the rules of the road and exercise caution while driving. Make sure to always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving.
Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage: Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage through the rental car company or your insurance provider. This can provide extra protection in case of an accident or damage to the rental car.
If you have been injured in a car accident involving a rental car, it is important to seek the help of an experienced St. Louis car injury attorney. At The Hoffman Law Firm, our attorneys understand the complex legal issues involved in these types of cases and will fight to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.
Below, we’ll explore situations when car rental companies may be held liable in a car accident case and discuss how victims can seek compensation.
If the Rental Car Was Not Properly Maintained and This Contributed to the Accident
It’s the responsibility of the owner of a vehicle, whether it’s a personal or rental car, to ensure that their vehicle is in good condition and properly maintained. If a rental car company neglects to properly maintain their vehicles and this contributes to an accident, they may be held liable for any injuries and damages that result.
If the Rental Car Company Rented the Car to Someone Who Was Not Legally Allowed to Drive
Some car rental companies may prioritize their profits over the safety of their customers and the general public. If a rental car company rents a car to someone who is not legally allowed to drive and this person causes an accident, the rental car company may be held liable for the damages and injuries that result.
Rental Car Tips to Remember: How to Avoid Accidents
Choose a reputable rental car company: Make sure to do your research and choose a rental car company with a good track record. Avoid companies with a history of negligent maintenance or renting to unqualified drivers.
Check the condition of the car before you rent: Before you take possession of the rental car, make sure to thoroughly inspect it for any damages or maintenance issues. If you notice any problems, bring them to the attention of the rental car company before you take the car off the lot.
Follow the rules of the road: As a driver, it’s your responsibility to follow the rules of the road and exercise caution while driving. Make sure to always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving.
Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage: Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage through the rental car company or your insurance provider. This can provide extra protection in case of an accident or damage to the rental car.
If you have been injured in a car accident involving a rental car, it is important to seek the help of an experienced St. Louis car injury attorney. At The Hoffman Law Firm, our attorneys understand the complex legal issues involved in these types of cases and will fight to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.