Our Tulsa, OK car accident attorneys explain how to handle crashes or collisions when driving a rental car.
Car accidents in Tulsa can happen to even the safest and most experienced of drivers. In many cases, the reckless actions of others is to blame. In rental car accidents, getting the compensation you need to recover can prove challenging. It is important to be aware of how to handle this type of accident and protect your rights in a claim.
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SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYWhat to Do if a Rental Car Accident Happens
According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office (OHSO), more than 70,000 car accidents happen throughout the state each year. Close to 14,000 of these occur directly in Tusla. If you are in a rental car and a crash happens, there are steps you need to take to protect yourself and your rights to compensation. For the most part, a rental car accident in Tulsa should be handled the same way as any other collision:
- Notify the police immediately so that an accident report can be filed;
- Get the names, contact information, and driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance numbers of other motorists involved;
- Make note of the exact time and place it happened and the names of witnesses at the scene;
- If possible, take photos of your vehicle, the other cars involved, and your injuries;
- Seek medical care as soon as possible, regardless of the severity of your injuries.
In a rental car accident, you should also notify the car rental company right away.
Dealing with Insurers After a Rental Car Accident
There are three general options for seeking compensation for a rental car accident in Tulsa:
- File a claim against the car rental company.
When you rent a car, you will be offered a chance to purchase what most people consider additional insurance coverage to protect you in the event of a rental car accident. This is actually a waiver, which states that the rental company will not come after you in the event of a crash or other damage to your vehicle. If an accident does happen, you may be able to file a claim against the company’s insurer or hold them liable in a civil claim if vehicle malfunctions contributed to your crash.
- File a claim with your own insurer.
Rentalcars.com advises that most automobile insurance policies cover rental car accidents, provided you have comprehensive coverage and the car was not used for business purposes. You may also have insurance coverage available through the credit card company through which you booked the car.
- File a claim against the at-fault driver.
If the reckless actions of other motorists caused your accident, you have the right to hold them accountable for property damages and personal injuries you suffer.
Request a Consultation with Our Tulsa Car Accident Attorneys Today
At BDIW Law, we protect your rights when rental car accidents happen, helping you get the compensation you need to recover in a claim. Call 918-728-6500 or contact our Tulsa car accident attorneys online and request a consultation today.
