If you have been injured in a rental car accident in Houston, you may be facing hospital bills, complex insurance issues, and significant emotional distress.
These incidents can be particularly challenging due to the added complications that often accompany rental agreements. You may require medical treatment while also being uncertain about who is responsible for covering the damages.
We recognize how challenging this situation can be, and we are committed to providing the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
Legal Issues Arising from Rental Car Collisions in Houston
Texas follows an at-fault insurance system, which means you generally file a claim against the person who caused your rental car accident. If a driver’s carelessness led to the crash, their insurance policy is often the first source of payment for injuries and property damage.
At the same time, rental car companies typically provide certain liability coverage for their vehicles, though the type and amount can vary.
It helps to remember that rental car accidents can involve more than one liable party. The vehicle’s driver is often the primary one at fault, but negligence on the part of the rental company or a maintenance provider might play a role, too.
It is also important to know that the Texas statute of limitations generally allows you two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. Protecting your rights from the start can preserve evidence and maintain your eligibility for compensation.
Below is a brief table that highlights some common insurance considerations in these crashes.
| Coverage Type | Key Purpose |
| Rental Company Liability Policy | Provides basic liability coverage, often up to a specific dollar limit |
| Driver’s Personal Auto Insurance | Might extend coverage to the rental car driver for bodily injury and property damage |
| Credit Card Rental Coverage | Sometimes covers collision damage if the driver used a credit card for the rental |
| Optional Collision Damage Waiver | Offered by the rental agency to potentially cover repair costs after a crash |
This overview is general, so each case involves its own details. A thorough evaluation can clarify which policy or combination of policies applies.
How The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec Can Help
Handling a rental car accident claim calls for a clear focus on both legal and practical issues. We provide steady guidance to help you pursue fair payments for your losses. Our team is ready to gather key evidence, speak with insurers, and advocate on your behalf at every stage.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
We begin by reviewing every detail of your situation, including police records, statements from witnesses, and your medical documents. This knowledge helps us gauge the strength of your potential claim. Then, we talk with you about your possible payment paths, whether through an insurance settlement or filing suit.
Determining Liability and Insurance Coverage
Our next priority is to pinpoint every party that may hold responsibility for your rental car accident. The driver is often the initial focus, but we also look at the rental agency if there is evidence of negligence or faulty maintenance.
In addition, we study all insurance plans, such as the driver’s policy, any rental car policy, or coverage you bought through the rental company.
Aggressive Representation
We negotiate with insurance adjusters to obtain a settlement that addresses medical costs, lost wages, and the pain you endured. If the result offered is unfair, we take the case to court and present arguments to safeguard your interests. Our approach seeks a fair outcome founded upon proper valuation of damages.
Client-Focused Approach
Your side of the story truly matters to us, and we respond to your questions whenever they arise. We also aim to connect you with trusted resources for medical care or financial concerns. Throughout your claim, you can lean on us to handle the legal load, so you can concentrate on your wellness.
What to Do After a Rental Car Accident
There are a few steps you can take that could help protect your well-being and your injury claim. Here is a short list of what many accident victims choose to do in such a situation:
- Call 911 if anyone is injured or if vehicles cannot be driven safely off the road.
- Seek medical evaluation promptly for any injuries, even if they feel minor.
- Notify the rental car company about the crash as soon as possible.
- Photograph damage to all vehicles, as well as visible injuries or road hazards.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved.
After those immediate tasks, seeking counsel from a lawyer can be beneficial before providing detailed statements to insurers.
This helps protect your rights and your potential for payment.
Contact The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec Today
We are ready to help you seek proper payment for your rental car accident. Call 281-643-2000 for a complimentary consultation and tell us your story. You can also reach our team through our contact page.
We know how challenging this time may feel, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. You deserve thorough legal advocacy, and we will strive to pursue fair compensation for your injuries.