For many families across the country, the onset of summer means it is vacation time. This year, just like every other year, Florida is a popular vacation destination. However, what is the one thing that vacationers from everywhere need once they get to Florida? That’s right, rental cars. How else can they get around to see all that Florida has to offer? All the beautiful venues and escapes are just waiting to be discovered. But, what else comes with everyone driving rental cars? That’s right, the occasional car crash. At the height of vacation season, chances are quite high that you can be involved in a car accident with one of the many rental cars on the Florida roads. Even in the off-season, higher numbers of tourists in Florida, compared to other states, increases your risk of being involved in an accident with a rental car.
While you may escape ever being in an accident with someone driving a rental car, the possibility always exists. We know that being in an accident with a rental car driver can leave you a little bewildered, so here are a few things you should consider now just in case this does happen to you. First, car rental agencies typically offer insurance for drivers. Unfortunately, many drivers decline it even though it would benefit them as drivers with rental insurance from the rental company are only responsible for up to $10,000 of injury and damage costs.
If a driver declines the rental company’s insurance, their own insurance coverage may be the primary source of compensation for any injuries or damage sustained to your car. When you are involved in an auto accident, even if the car is a rental, it is always the best practice to get the driver’s primary insurance information along with any additional rental insurance information that they may have. Because not everyone travels with the information they may need, if the driver does not have their primary insurance information handy, make sure to get the driver’s full name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and the plate number from the car. Additionally, you should always call 911 and have a police officer include all pertinent information in the police report.
Remember, quick action on your part is advisable as you want to get your questions answered before the renter leaves the state. Typical car renters in Florida are only there as visitors for maybe a week or two, and it is much easier to get things done towards your case while they are still in town.
If you are involved in an accident with a rental car and have questions or want help with your case, call BOCA Law toll-free at 855-262-2529. Let our highly skilled legal team work to quickly gather the information needed to determine who is responsible and what coverage is available.
