Rental car accidents in Woodbridge differ from personal vehicle accidents. The outcome may be the same, but getting compensation afterward can be more difficult. Proving fault is just the first step in a rental car accident. The next steps include determining whose insurance should pay for the damages.
Filing insurance claims for an accident with a rented vehicle also depends on whether you or the other driver was behind the wheel of the rental. If you are involved in a rental car crash, you need legal assistance from our seasoned car accident attorneys at Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC. Call our office for a free consultation.
Who Is Responsible After a Rental Car Accident?
In an ordinary motor vehicle accident, drivers exchange information and then file their insurance claims. If either driver is using a rental vehicle, then more than one additional party may be responsible for a crash in Woodbridge Township. The rental car driver is liable if their negligence or carelessness caused the accident. However, the rental car company may also share some liability if the accident resulted from failure to maintain the car or if they rented it to an individual who did not have a license.
Additionally, the vehicle manufacturer could have some liability, especially if the rental company made a large purchase, or a fleet purchase, and the manufacturer did not provide adequate maintenance or follow-up. In some cases, the previous user may share some responsibility, for instance, if they damaged the vehicle and failed to let the rental agency know.
The initial claim proceeds like any other accident claim. Since New Jersey is a no-fault state, drivers file with their own insurer, and their personal injury protection (PIP) coverage pays first. After exhausting your PIP, you may then consider pursuing additional claims.
Secondary Rental Car Insurance
Most auto rental companies offer optional rental insurance. When you rent a car, it is a good idea to take this additional coverage. Usually, it covers damage to the rental vehicle, no matter who was at fault, and adds additional personal injury coverage up to a certain limit.
Other forms of optional rental car insurance may come from travel companies, in package deals, or through credit cards. With so many insurance options available, you might face a daunting number of forms to complete after an accident. An experienced attorney in Woodbridge can help you understand your next steps after a collision with a rented vehicle.
Compensation After an Accident With a Rented Vehicle
After a Woodbridge Township rental car crash, you can request compensation for economic damages that reasonably result from the incident, such as medical costs, doctors’ bills, surgery, and rehabilitation. You may also be able to claim more unusual costs, such as changes in your travel plans if you are out of town during your accident.
You can also claim non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life or loss of consortium, which is the loss of non-economic benefits or aspects of a marriage or other close relationship. In rare cases, your attorney can request punitive damages if the other driver’s actions were extremely reckless or negligent.
Call Our Lawyers in Woodbridge After a Rental Car Crash
Rental car accidents in Woodbridge can cause injuries and suffering, but also confusion and uncertainty about seeking compensation from different insurance companies. If you need assistance after an accident involving a rented vehicle, call our attorneys at Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC.
When you come in for your free and confidential consultation, our legal team may review your case. We work to get your case the attention it needs so you receive the settlement you deserve. Call us to make an appointment today. There is no cost to you until we settle or win your case.
