In an Accident with a Rental Car in Dallas? Here’s What to Do Next
In an Accident with a Rental Car in Dallas? Here’s What to Do Next
Car accidents are stressful enough—but when they involve a rental car, things get even more complicated. Suddenly, you’re not just dealing with injuries or property damage—you’re also navigating rental agreements, insurance loopholes, and legal responsibility. At Reynolds & Reynolds law firm, we help clients cut through the confusion and take control after a car crash.
Don’t Panic—Take Control at the Scene
First things first: make safety your top priority. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 if anyone needs medical attention. Even if the accident seems minor, always report it to local Dallas law enforcement. A police report can be critical later on.
Next, exchange information just like you would in any other accident. Get the names, contact details, insurance info, and driver’s license numbers of all parties involved. Also, take clear photos of the damage, the rental car, the other vehicles, the scene, and any relevant road signs or signals.
Contact the Rental Company—Immediately
As soon as it’s safe, notify the rental car company. Most rental agreements require you to report any accident as soon as possible—waiting too long could violate your contract. Follow their instructions carefully, and don’t assume the insurance they offer at the counter covers everything. In many cases, it doesn’t.
Whose Insurance Pays for What?
This is where things get tricky—and where most people start to feel overwhelmed. Depending on your coverage, several different parties may be responsible for the damage:
- Your personal auto insurance may extend to rental cars.
- The rental company’s insurance (if you purchased it) may only cover certain damages or situations.
- The other driver’s insurance could be liable if they were at fault.
- Your credit card provider might offer rental car coverage if you used the card to pay.
Without legal guidance, it’s easy to get caught between companies all trying to deny responsibility. That’s why having a Dallas car accident lawyer in your corner can make all the difference.
What If You’re Injured?
If you were hurt in the accident—even if you were in a rental—your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering may still be covered under Texas personal injury laws. Don’t assume you’re out of options just because the vehicle wasn’t yours.
At our firm, we work quickly to identify all possible sources of compensation. We gather evidence, communicate with insurers, and fight to protect your rights every step of the way. Our goal? To take the pressure off you—so you can focus on healing.
Steps to Take After a Rental Car Accident
To protect yourself legally and financially, follow these critical steps:
- Call 911 – Always report the accident to police.
- Document everything – Take photos, gather info, and note any witnesses.
- Notify the rental company – Follow their process exactly.
- Contact your insurance – Report the accident promptly.
- Speak with an attorney – Get a free consultation from a Dallas car accident lawyer before signing anything.
Don’t Let a Rental Car Crash Ruin Your Life
If you are involved in a rental car accident, contact the professionals at Reynolds & Reynolds. We can help you through the details of your accident, so contact our attorneys here or call (972) 684-5011 to speak with someone today. Follow us on Facebook for updates and legal tips, and contact Reynolds & Reynolds to discuss your case.
