Car accidents are stressful, but they become much more complicated if you were driving a rental. In many ways, dealing with a rental car accident is similar to a collision involving your own vehicle. However, since there are third-parties involved, the process might be more difficult, especially when determining who is liable for the crash. If you were involved in a rental car accident, here are the things you need to do to ensure that your rights are protected.

Assess the situation

First, If you are physically able to do so, try to check everyone’s condition. Make sure everyone involved is okay and take note of their injuries so that you can relay them to the responding officers. Call 911 or the authorities and notify them of any severe injuries, so they can bring the necessary medical equipment. If you can and if you were advised by the police, safely move your car to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Never leave the accident scene and when talking to the authorities, do so in a calm and polite manner. Take note of the police officer’s information and remember to secure a copy of the police report later on.

Seek medical assistance

Regardless if it was only a fender bender, make sure that you get proper medical attention. Do not downplay your injuries and relay everything that you are feeling to the first responders. Keep in mind that some injuries tend to manifest over time, so it is important that you get treated by a medical professional within 24 hours of the accident.

Exchange information

After assessing the situation and talking to the authorities, exchange information with the other driver and other injured parties. Do your best to stay calm and speak objectively. Never apologize, even if you think the accident was your fault. Remember that whatever you say may be used against you in court, so always be vigilant when engaging with others. Do not sign any documents or agree with any settlement without your legal representative. To be safe, avoid mentioning that you were driving a rental vehicle, as the other party might try to use that to their advantage.

Document the accident

Depending on the gravity of your injuries, try to get as much evidence as you can. Take videos and pictures of the accident scene. Collect the names of potential witnesses and, if possible, get their statements while they are still present. Doing so can help you get a third-party account of what transpired as soon as it happened, lessening the chance of them changing or recanting their testimonies.

Notify the rental company

You should notify the rental company as soon as possible of the accident so they can advise of what you need to do next. Call the emergency phone number they provided or the one listed on the contract. Keep in mind that you are still responsible for the vehicle until it is properly returned to the rental agency, so it is vital that you follow their instructions.

Get legal help

As with any accident, you need to seek the help of an attorney right away. Talk to a reliable and experienced legal company such as Dennis Hernandez & Associates so that they can guide you on the steps you need to take to make sure that you get the compensation and assistance that you rightfully deserve.

Getting into a car accident is an unfortunate situation that you do not want to experience. However, occurrences such as these are inevitable, so you must arm yourself with the necessary information to help you navigate this stressful circumstance.