What Steps Do You Need To Take After A Rental Car Accident In Manhattan Beach?

If you’ve flown into California for business or vacation, you’ll probably end up renting a car for transportation during your stay. Unfortunately, no matter how good of a driver you are, an accident is always a possibility. This makes it very important for drivers of rental cars to know what steps to take after being involved in an accident while driving a rental car in California.

What to Do Immediately Following a Rental Car Accident in Manhattan Beach

The steps you take immediately following an automobile accident are the same you’d take anywhere regardless of whether the vehicle is rental or not:

• Don’t leave the scene of the accident.
• Make sure everyone is okay. Render reasonable assistance to anyone who’s been injured. Call 911 if there are serious injuries; call the police as well.
• Exchange information with the other persons involved – driver’s license, insurance, etc. If you’ve hit a parked vehicle and don’t know who the owner is, leave a note.
• Other than that, it’s advisable that you don’t make any statements. Don’t apologize or say anything to accept any liability for the accident. Don’t post about the accident on social media. Anything you say could be used to prove fault in the accident claim.
• Gather evidence — take pictures, get the names and contact information of witnesses — anything that will help prove your side of the story.
• Try to clear your vehicle out of the roadway to prevent any more accidents. If you can’t move it, call a tow truck.
• Seek medical evaluation and treatment for any injuries as soon as possible after the accident. Even if you do not feel injured, make sure to have a medical professional assess you.
• Contact the rental company and inform them of the accident.

Who’s Liable after a Manhattan Beach Rental Car Accident?

Before you get behind the wheel of that rental car, make sure that you’re properly insured. California is a comparative negligence state, which means any compensation you recover following an accident will be reduced by the percentage of liability you had in the accident.

For instance, if your total damages were $100,000 and it was determined you shared 25 percent of the responsibility for the accident, you’ll only be able to collect $75,000.

Are You Covered? Understanding Rental Car Insurance in Manhattan Beach

Rental car insurance can be a complex subject, especially in bustling areas like Manhattan Beach. While third-party liability insurance is the only mandatory coverage in California, there are several additional options you should consider for comprehensive protection:

1. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Often misunderstood, the CDW is crucial. It waives your financial responsibility for damages to the rental car itself. However, it’s important to note that this does not extend to personal injuries or damage to other properties. Assessing your activities in Manhattan Beach can help you decide if this waiver is right for you, especially if you plan to navigate high-traffic areas.
2. Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): Given the busy streets and popular tourist spots in Manhattan Beach, SLI offers an extra layer of security. This coverage steps in where the basic policy might fall short, providing additional liability protection that could be vital in the event of a serious accident.
3. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): PAI covers medical costs for you and your passengers in an accident. This is especially beneficial if you’re traveling with family. Understanding the specifics of what PAI covers can help you make an informed decision about whether to opt for this additional coverage.
4. Credit Card Insurance Benefits: Many credit card companies offer rental car insurance as a benefit, but these policies often come with limitations. It’s essential to review these carefully, paying attention to what is and isn’t covered. Remember, most credit card insurances typically cover only the rental car damage and may not include personal injury or damage to other vehicles.
5. Advice for International Visitors: For those visiting from abroad, navigating U.S. rental car insurance can be challenging. Familiarize yourself with the nuances of American insurance policies. This understanding is vital to ensure you’re adequately covered during your stay in Manhattan Beach.

By considering these additional insurance options, you can enjoy your time in Manhattan Beach with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re well-protected. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, the right insurance coverage can make all the difference in the event of an unforeseen rental car accident.

Never Accept an Insurance Company Settlement until You’ve Spoken with an Attorney

Some words of advice: never accept a settlement offer from an insurance company without speaking to a personal injury attorney first. The insurance companies aren’t interested in helping you. You’re just a problem they want to get rid of as quickly and cheaply as possible. Their offers rarely provide for the total losses and costs related to your injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rental Car Accidents

Speak to Top Rated Manhattan Beach Automobile Accident Attorneys

If you’ve been injured in a rental car accident in Manhattan Beach that was the fault of another driver, you have a right to seek compensation for your injuries. The car accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott Dinsmore, APC are here to help protect your rights after an accident.

Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to secure compensation for the medical bills, pain and suffering, economic losses and other damages resulting from your accident. Contact us today to speak with one of our highly experienced Manhattan Beach rental car accident attorneys about your case by filling our Contact Form or by calling 310-318-1220.