Dealing with rental car accidents in Burbank is particularly stressful. It’s not just a regular car accident; you’re also dealing with rental policies and multiple insurance companies. It’s confusing and frustrating to figure out who is responsible for what.
At Block LLP, we’re here to help. We’ll sort through the insurance policies and work with the companies for you. Our goal is to make sure you’re protected and get the fair outcome you deserve.
How Rental Car Insurance Works in California
California doesn’t require rental car companies to provide liability insurance. Most renters rely on their personal auto insurance or purchase coverage from the rental company. This creates confusion when accidents happen.
Your personal auto insurance usually extends to rental cars. However, coverage depends on your specific policy terms. Some insurance companies exclude rental car coverage or have special restrictions.
Different Types of Rental Car Coverage
Personal auto insurance typically covers rental cars the same as your own vehicle. If you have liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, these usually apply to rentals too.
Rental car companies offer several insurance options:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car
- Liability insurance protects against third-party claims
- Personal accident insurance covers medical expenses
- Personal effects coverage protects belongings in the car
Credit cards sometimes provide rental car insurance as a benefit. However, this coverage often has limitations and might not cover all types of damage.
Insurance Gaps for Rental Cars
Your car insurance policy might not cover your rental car. It’s a common mistake to assume it does. Your policy could have specific exclusions, like for business travel, out-of-state driving, or certain types of vehicles. When an accident happens, finding out you’re not covered is a shock.
If you don’t have personal auto insurance, California law requires you to buy the minimum liability coverage from the rental company. The same rule applies to most international visitors, since their home country policies won’t work here.
This can be a lot to figure out on your own. If you’re not sure about your coverage, it can be a good idea to talk to a Burbank rental car accident lawyer to get some peace of mind.
Who Pays for Damages in Rental Car Accidents?
Who pays for the damage depends on who caused the crash. If the other driver is at fault, their insurance is responsible for paying for everything, including repairs and any injuries. If you caused the accident, your own insurance or the rental company’s policy will cover the damages. You do not want to get stuck with unfair blame and liability, as it can be costly.
At Block LLP, we can identify and prove who should be at fault after a rental car wreck in Burbank. We’ll handle the insurance company claims for you and make sure you understand your options.
Common Complications After a Rental Car Accident
Getting into an accident in a rental car is a major hassle, but there are a few common issues that make it even more complicated.
Rental companies can charge you for “loss of use” while the car is being repaired. The repair process can be slower because multiple companies have to agree on estimates and other issues. Further, your insurance might deny your claim, saying you weren’t covered.
It can all be frustrating, but our Burbank rental car accident attorneys can help you address these complications.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Rental Car Accident Lawyer in Burbank
Getting into a rental car accident in Burbank is a stressful situation, and you shouldn’t have to handle it alone. Dealing with multiple insurance companies and confusing policies can feel overwhelming.
At Block LLP, our car accident lawyers can help. We’ll handle the insurance companies for you and make sure you understand your options. Our goal is to protect your rights and help you get the fair outcome you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case.