In A Rental Car Accident Here’s What You Should Do Next?

Accidents can be stressful, but they become even more complicated when a rental vehicle is involved. Whether you’re visiting Utah or a local, understanding the steps for rental car accidents can help protect your rights and streamline the process.

Here’s what to do after a rental car accident.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Rental Car Accident

Getting into an accident while driving a rental car can be disorienting, but taking the proper steps immediately afterward can protect your health, finances, and legal standing. Whether the accident is minor or severe, following a straightforward, calm process helps ensure your safety and simplifies communication with insurance providers and rental companies.

Below are the essential actions to take right after the incident.

Check for Injuries and Move to Safety

Your priority should always be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries. If it’s safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road.

In case of serious injuries, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s wise to seek medical attention as soon as possible—some conditions, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.

Additionally, having a medical evaluation on record can support any future insurance claims or legal proceedings.

Call the Police and File an Accident Report

A police report is essential for rental accident cases. This official documentation will be necessary when dealing with insurance companies and the rental agency.

Always request a copy of the report for your records. The responding officer will help ensure that the facts are objectively recorded, and their report often carries more weight than statements made by the involved parties alone.

You can request a copy of the crash report through the Utah Department of Public Safety, which maintains official records for accidents investigated by law enforcement.

Exchange Information With All Drivers Involved

Collect names, driver’s license numbers, contact information, and insurance details from everyone involved, including any third-party driver in rental crash situations. Document the scene with photos and gather witness contact info if available.

Be sure also to note the make, model, license plate number, and location of the accident. Avoid discussing fault or liability at the scene, as this could complicate the claims process later.

Instead, stick to gathering factual information and let the insurance companies and authorities determine responsibility.

Notify the Rental Car Company and Your Insurance

Most rental agreements outline specific procedures for reporting collisions, and failing to follow them can result in penalties or loss of coverage.

The rental company will guide you through the following steps, which may include completing an incident report, arranging for vehicle towing or replacement, and clarifying liability. Timely communication also ensures that claims are processed efficiently and minimizes the risk of unexpected charges.

• Rental Agreement Obligations: Immediately notify the car rental company representatives about the accident. Most agreements require you to report any collision promptly, especially if you opted for a collision damage waiver (CDW).
• Contacting Your Personal or Credit Card Insurance: Some credit cards offer rental car coverage if you used one to book the vehicle. For a detailed overview of rental car insurance options and consumer rights, the Federal Trade Commission provides guidance on what coverage may already be in place and what to consider when renting.

Who Pays for Damages in a Rental Car Crash?

Determining who is financially responsible after a rental car accident can be confusing, especially when multiple insurance policies and legal standards are involved. In Utah, payment for damages may involve the at-fault driver’s insurance, the renter’s personal or credit card coverage, or protection offered by the rental company.

Understanding how liability is determined—and what coverage applies—can help you avoid unexpected costs and streamline the claims process.

Understanding Liability and Coverage

Determining who pays after a rental car crash in Utah depends on several factors: fault, your rental agreement, and available insurance. Rental car accident liability often falls on the at-fault driver’s insurance, but supplemental or personal coverage can fill in gaps.

Utah Laws on Fault and Rental Accidents

Utah rental accident laws follow a comparative fault model. If you’re less than 50% at fault, you may still recover damages. It’s essential to understand how rental vehicle insurance coverage and Utah rental accident laws intersect in these situations.

What if You’re Injured in a Rental Car Accident in Utah?

Being injured in a rental car accident adds another layer of stress and complexity to an already difficult situation. Beyond addressing vehicle damage, you’ll need to focus on your recovery and navigate medical bills, insurance paperwork, and potential legal issues.

Knowing your rights as an injured party and understanding the resources available to you—such as insurance coverage and legal support—can make a significant difference in how quickly and effectively you recover both physically and financially.

Filing a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver

You may be entitled to file a personal injury claim if another driver caused the accident. This may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The insurance claim process begins by identifying the liable party and their insurer.

When to Contact a Rental Car Accident Lawyer

If you were injured or the insurance process becomes complicated, consider reaching out to a Salt Lake City rental car accident lawyer. An attorney can protect your rights and ensure you follow the correct rental car accident steps for filing a claim.

How Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers Can Help

Dealing with the aftermath of a rental car accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re far from home or unfamiliar with local laws. Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to make the process easier.

With a deep understanding of Utah’s legal landscape and a commitment to client-focused service, our team is prepared to handle the legal complexities on your behalf, allowing you to focus on recovery. Whether you’re facing denied claims, injury-related expenses, or confusion about liability, we’re ready to help.

Legal Support in Salt Lake City for Rental Car Accidents

At Valley Law, we understand the confusion and stress that come with being involved in a rental car crash in Utah. Our attorneys offer experienced legal support, helping clients navigate insurance claims and Utah rental accident laws with confidence.

Free Consultations and Case Evaluations

We offer free consultations and case evaluations to help you understand your options. If you’re unsure what to do after a rental car accident, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

FAQ on Rental Car Accidents in Utah

What insurance covers rental cars in Utah?

Your auto insurance may cover rental cars, including liability and collision coverage, if included in your policy. You can also purchase additional protection from the rental company, such as a Collision Damage Waiver.

Some credit cards offer secondary or even primary rental coverage if you use the card to pay for the rental.

Do I need to file a police report?

Yes, filing a police report is recommended for all rental car accidents, regardless of their severity. It provides official documentation that supports insurance claims, clarifies fault, and complies with rental company policies and legal requirements in Utah.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes, Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident.

However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.

Should I contact a lawyer?

Yes, especially if you’re injured, liability is unclear, or you’re facing disputes with the rental company or insurance provider. A Salt Lake City rental car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and pursue fair compensation.

Work With Valley Law Today

If you’ve been involved in a rental car accident in Utah, don’t leave your recovery or financial future to chance. The steps you take now can make all the difference in protecting your rights, avoiding unexpected costs, and securing the compensation you deserve.

At Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, our Salt Lake City car accident lawyers offer clear guidance, aggressive representation, and personalized support every step of the way. Schedule your free consultation today at (801) 810-9999 and let us help you move forward with confidence.