Rental Car Accidents in California
Our Los Angeles attorneys know how to get results
Rental car accidents can be overwhelming. Between insurance questions, liability concerns, and the fine print in your rental agreement, it’s not always clear what to do next – or who’s responsible.
At Oaks Law Firm, we help people across California navigate the confusing aftermath of rental car accidents – whether you were driving the rental or hit by someone else driving one. We’ll help you figure out who’s liable, what your options are, and how to pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to, no matter how difficult things get.
“Highly recommend Oaks Law Firm, they handled 2 car accident cases for me and I’m very pleased with the outcome of both cases. Mathew and his team ROCKS!!” – Monica O., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Common rental car accidents
Rental car collisions can happen in all kinds of situations, and each one comes with its own set of legal and insurance complications. Common rental car accident cases we’ve handled include:
- Accidents while driving a rental car
- Crashes caused by someone driving a rental car
- Injured as a passenger in a rental
What to do after a rental car accident in California
If you’re involved in a rental car accident, take these steps:
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Get a police report (important for insurance).
- Exchange information with the other driver(s).
- Take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any injuries.
- Notify the rental company ASAP.
- Notify your insurance.
- Contact an attorney.
Oaks Law Firm can handle all communication with the insurance companies involved so you don’t say something that could hurt your case.
Who pays for damages in a rental car accident?
In California, the party at fault for the accident is generally responsible for covering damages. That could mean:
- The other driver’s insurance (if you were not at fault)
- Your own personal insurance (if you purchased coverage or were at fault)
- The rental car company’s coverage (if you bought their insurance)
- Your credit card company’s coverage, if applicable
- The rental company, if they are liable for faulty vehicles or were negligent
Sorting through all these options can be overwhelming. That’s why having a lawyer in your corner matters.
What if I didn’t buy the rental company’s insurance?
Even if you declined the rental company’s insurance, you may still be covered through:
- Your personal auto insurance policy
- Credit card rental coverage, if you booked the rental with it
- The at-fault driver’s liability insurance
Your car accident attorney will help review your policies and determine what coverage applies.
What if an unauthorized driver was behind the wheel?
Rental car agreements usually list specific drivers who are allowed to operate the vehicle. If someone not listed in the agreement (an unauthorized driver) was behind the wheel during the accident, it can make your claim more complicated.
In many cases, this can lead to the rental company and insurance providers denying coverage altogether. That means the unauthorized driver (or their personal insurance, if any) may be held personally liable for damages.
What damages can I recover after a rental car accident?
If you were injured in the crash, it’s important to understand what types of damages you may be entitled to recover. Compensation isn’t just limited to vehicle repairs or replacement – it can also cover a range of expenses that stem from the physical, emotional, and financial toll of your injuries. You may be entitled to recover compensation for the following damages:
- Medical care and follow-up treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
Let Oaks Law Firm handle the hassle of your rental car accident
Rental car accidents can get complicated fast, with multiple insurance policies, confusing contracts, and finger-pointing over liability. At Oaks Law Firm, we know how to handle these difficult cases and fight for what you’re owed.
With us by your side, we’ll review all available coverage, protect you if the rental company tries to shift blame, and help document your damages to pursue full and fair compensation. Best of all, you don’t pay us unless we win your case. Focus on healing, while we take care of the rest. Contact us today for a free consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout the San Fernando Valley.