What to Do If You’re Involved in a Rental Car Accident or Cause Damage

If you’re renting a vehicle, understanding how to respond in case of an accident can save you stress, time, and money. Whether it’s a significant collision or a minor scrape that leaves a mark, you’ll need to follow up with your rental agency. Discover what to expect if you crash, who covers the costs for damage to the rental car, and key information you should have.

What actions should you take if you experience an accident in your rental car?

While we hope it never happens, it’s crucial to be prepared in case you have an accident with your rental vehicle. Here’s a straightforward step-by-step guide to ensure everyone’s safety and how to handle claims smoothly.

Step 1

Check on Everyone Involved in the Accident

Once you've confirmed that everyone is safe, assess the condition of the vehicle(s). It's also crucial to determine if you need to evacuate the area due to potential hazards like fire, downed power lines, or fast-moving traffic.

Step 2

Document the scene and exchange contact details

Obtain the contact and insurance details of any other drivers involved in the accident. Gather the names of passengers and witnesses as well. Record the makes and models of all other vehicles involved, along with their license plates.

Before relocating the rental car, note the specifics of the accident location, including street names. Take photos of everything to bolster any claims you may need to file. This should include images of the vehicles involved, any visible damage, and contextual shots of the scene. Many insurance companies will require you to upload these photos online when submitting a claim.

Step 3

Notify the rental car company

Next, reach out to your rental car company. You can typically locate the phone number on a sticker in the glove compartment or elsewhere inside the vehicle. Alternatively, it will be found on your rental agreement or the company's website. They will guide you on the next steps and address any insurance-related questions.

If you’re with an independent car insurance provider, you’ll need to reach out to them separately to report the accident. Review your policy to understand your coverage and deductible. Also, inquire whether they will notify the police to file an accident report on your behalf.

Step 4

Determine who is responsible for any claims

The amount you are responsible for will depend on the type of insurance coverage you have chosen. Nearly all car rentals come with a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) for basic incidents, but this usually excludes components such as wheels or windshields.

Remember that you’ll likely need to pay an excess fee for every claim. If you haven't opted for a damage protection plan like a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), you’ll be responsible for your policy's excess with the rental company, regardless of fault. Alternatively, you might consider purchasing Excess Insurance.

What to inspect before driving off

Protect yourself from false claims by inspecting your rental car for any pre-existing damage before you drive. It takes just a minute to capture photos and videos of your vehicle right after pickup. Ensure the images are clear and cover all major areas—including the interior. It’s wise to also document the mileage and fuel levels, especially if your rental has a mileage cap or specific fuel policy.

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Final thoughts: what should you expect if you damage a rental car?

No one enjoys contemplating the possibility of an accident. However, just because it’s unpleasant doesn’t mean it won’t occur. Being prepared is crucial. Understanding the necessary steps will help you minimize stress when filing your insurance claim later on.

Above all, ensure your insurance is active and familiarize yourself with the emergency service numbers before you head out.

How Dinogo curates this guide

Though I’ve been fortunate to steer clear of major accidents during my car rental experiences, I have faced several claims. From chipped windshields to lost fuel caps (no joke!), navigating the claims process can be quite tricky.

Each claim is unique, but this guide draws on my experiences to help you be as prepared as possible. Driving always carries some risk. My advice is to secure the most comprehensive rental car insurance available. One last insider tip: I prefer to book independent car rental insurance for its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and usually broader coverage.