Rental car accidents create an additional layer of complexity to collisions because of the rental company’s involvement in the situation. If you are renting a car and you are involved in a crash, there may be questions about insurance coverage, as well as who is responsible for picking up the tab for injuries and property damage. If you are driving your own car and are involved in an accident with a rental, you may be left to haggle with both the driver and the rental company.
The Baton Rouge car accident attorneys at Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers help people get back on their feet after a crash by getting them the full compensation available under the law. We use our legal experience to resolve cases without costly court battles when possible while standing ready to go through trial when needed. We have a strong track record of success in car accident and other personal injury cases. Call us at (225) 263-4787 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a Baton Rouge personal injury attorney.
Our attorneys take a personalized approach to legal representation. That means we take the time to understand our clients’ unique individual goals and tailor a strategy designed to meet their specific needs. It also means that we make ourselves directly available to clients around the clock.
Insurance Coverage for Car Rental Crashes
A person who rents a car in Louisiana is generally responsible for any physical damage that happens to the car during the term of the rental. The renter may also be legally liable for damage to other cars involved in the crash or injuries sustained as a result of the collision.
Louisiana’s negligence law generally requires drivers to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner. It also makes them legally liable for any damage or injuries caused as a result of failing to live up to that responsibility.
The extent that a renter may be personally responsible varies, depending on insurance coverage. It is important to understand your coverage before renting a car.
If you own a vehicle that is insured, that insurance policy likely also covers crashes involving cars that you rent. That includes both the damage to the rental car and any liability that you may incur for damage caused to other vehicles or injuries sustained by other drivers, passengers or pedestrians. The coverage also often overlaps any liability coverage offered by the rental company.
Although major credit card companies also offer some insurance for rentals secured using the card, that coverage is often limited. It typically includes little or no liability coverage.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rental car crash or other type of accident in Baton Rouge, our car accident lawyers can help.
At Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we help people get back on their feet after an accident by getting them the compensation they deserve. Our attorneys guide clients through the legal process with experience and personal attention.