Atlanta Rental Car Accident Lawyer

At Merritt & Merritt Law Firm, we recognize the disruption and distress that follow a car accident. When that accident involves a rental vehicle, the legal complexities can add to that distress, leaving you feeling uncertain about your rights and the path forward. With over four decades of dedicated service to the people of Georgia, our firm has established itself as a leading advocate for those injured in car accidents and other personal injury incidents – call us today: 404-975-1775.

We have a long and successful history of representing thousands of individuals across the state, securing substantial recoveries to help them on their journey to healing and recovery. Our commitment is to stand by everyday working individuals, providing a powerful voice against large insurance companies and other responsible parties who might seek to minimize your claim.

Understanding that accidents can happen at any time, our team offers 24-hour service, and we are prepared to meet with you at your convenience, whether it’s at your home, your workplace, or even the hospital. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rental car accident due to another’s negligence in Georgia, we encourage you to reach out to an Atlanta rental car accident lawyer for a free, no-obligation case evaluation at 404-975-1775. Let Merritt & Merritt Law Firm be your trusted advocates in this challenging time.

Understanding the Unique Aspects of Rental Car Accidents

Rental car accidents can add a layer of complexity to an already complex legal process. Unlike a typical collision between two privately owned cars, a rental car accident introduces the involvement of the rental car company itself, along with their specific insurance policies and the terms outlined in the rental agreement. This means that determining liability and navigating the insurance claim process can become significantly more intricate.

For example, there might be multiple insurance policies that could potentially provide coverage, including your own personal auto insurance, the insurance offered by the rental car company, and even benefits associated with the credit card you used to pay for the rental. Rental companies may also be shielded from liability as well, depending on the situation. Given these added layers of complexity, it becomes crucial to have the guidance of an experienced Atlanta rental car accident lawyer from Merritt & Merritt Law Firm who knows the complexities of rental car accidents to ensure your rights are fully protected and all avenues of compensation are explored.

Common Causes of Rental Car Accidents in Georgia

Many rental car accidents in Georgia stem from the same common causes as other motor vehicle collisions, primarily driver negligence. This can be caused by many different factors behind the wheel, such as a driver exceeding posted speed limits, driving while distracted, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or failing to adhere to traffic laws, signs, and signals.

A significant factor in rental car accidents, however, can be that the renter is unfamiliar with the car and gets distracted trying to operate it properly. Renters may find themselves operating a car that differs significantly from their personal vehicle in terms of size, handling, braking responsiveness, and the layout of controls, potentially leading to errors in operation or judgment. Additionally, individuals renting cars are often traveling in unfamiliar geographical areas, which can lead to them using GPS or navigation devices and becoming distracted trying to find where to drive.

Protecting Your Rights in a Rental Car Accident

Georgia law operates under a comparative fault rule, which states that if you are found at fault for an accident you are claiming compensation for, you will have that percentage of fault taken out of your compensation award. Also, in order to file a claim in Georgia for personal injury, you must not be found to be over 50% at fault for the accident in question. You must also make sure to file your claim within two years from the date of the accident in order to claim any compensation for your injuries.

Georgia law also mandates minimum levels of auto insurance coverage for all drivers, and places obligations on rental car companies to ensure that their renters either have their own insurance coverage or purchase the minimum required liability insurance from the rental company. If you are involved in an accident caused by a rental car driver, you should not hesitate to call an Atlanta rental car accident lawyer at Merritt & Merritt Law Firm at 404-975-1775 today to get your compensation as soon as possible.

Your Rights and Legal Remedies After a Rental Car Accident

If you have sustained injuries in a rental car accident in Georgia due to the fault of another party, you may possess the right to pursue legal remedies to recover compensation for your damages. These can include anything from medical bills, to lost wages, to pain and suffering and emotional distress from the accident. This compensation is not limited to past bills, but applies to any future foreseen injuries. For example, if you require extended medical care due to the accident, then you should receive compensation for that. Also, if you are unable to work in the job you used to work in due to the injuries you received from the accident, then those wages would be determined and sought as compensation in your lawsuit.

Our Atlanta Rental Car Accident Lawyer Answers Your Questions

Does my insurance pay in a rental car accident?

Dealing with insurance claims after a rental car accident in Georgia often involves navigating a complex web of potential coverage sources. Your own personal auto insurance policy may provide coverage when you are driving a rental car. This could include your liability coverage, and potentially your collision and comprehensive coverage.

Should I accept the rental car company insurance they offer me?

Rental car companies typically offer a range of optional insurance coverages when you rent a vehicle. These may include Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI), which provides additional liability protection beyond the state minimum; a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which can protect you from financial responsibility for damage to the rental car; Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), which can cover medical expenses for you and your passengers; and Personal Effects Coverage (PEC), which may cover the loss or damage of your personal belongings.

If you have auto insurance that covers rental cars then you likely don’t need this insurance. Always check your personal auto policy and credit card benefits before renting. If they offer solid coverage, you can likely decline the rental company’s insurance. If you’re unsure or want peace of mind, purchasing it may be worth it.

When can I skip the insurance a rental car company offers me?

If you have insurance in any of these situations you can likely skip the insurance they offer you at the rental counter:

• Your personal auto insurance covers rentals – Many policies extend coverage to rental cars in the U.S.
• Your credit card offers primary rental car insurance – Some premium credit cards (like certain Amex, Chase, or Visa cards) provide primary coverage, meaning they pay before your personal insurance.
• You’re okay with a deductible – If your personal insurance covers rentals, but you’d have to pay a deductible, consider whether the risk is worth the extra rental cost.

Does insurance coverage through my credit card count for rental cars?

If you paid for your rental car using a credit card, your credit card company might also offer some form of rental car insurance benefits, often acting as secondary coverage that kicks in after other applicable insurance policies have been exhausted. If this is the case, you likely don’t need to accept the insurance policies they offer you when you rent a vehicle.

Understanding the interplay and potential hierarchy of these various insurance coverages is essential to maximizing your potential for compensation after a rental car accident, which is why it is important to have an Atlanta rental car accident lawyer from Merritt & Merritt Law Firm who understands these complexities to get you the compensation you deserve.

Speak with an Atlanta Rental Car Accident Lawyer Who is On Your Side

If you are involved in a rental car accident, the amount of stress you are suffering from your injuries and car damage is already too much. Having to deal with the complex Georgia legal system to get you compensated for your injuries should not add to that stress. Once you get the medical attention you need, call us at Merritt & Merritt Law Firm at 404-975-1775 to get a compassionate, experienced, and dedicated Atlanta rental car accident lawyer by your side to handle your claim for you.