New Orleans is one of the premier travel destinations in the United States. The city brings in millions of visitors each and every year. Because the city is spread out, many people rent cars to get around. With that many rental cars on the road, there is a potential that you may be the victim of a rental car accident.
If you find yourself in that unfortunate position, there are a number of issues to consider.
3 Questions Raised by Rental Car Accidents:
1. Which Liability Insurance Applies?
One of the first things you will need to determine is the applicable liability insurance (i.e., insurance for the negligent driver that caused the accident). This will typically depend on what the person renting the car selects. Some people prefer to use their own car insurance with rental cars. Other people will purchase liability insurance through the rental car company or may have insurance provided by a third-party travel service, such as American Express.
2. Was the Negligent Driver Working When The Accident Happened?
Many times people will come to town for business and will rent cars to get to and from meetings or conventions. If the negligent driver was working at the time of the rental car accident, you may be able to bring a claim against his or her employer.
3. Will Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM) Coverage Apply?
Yes. If you are in a rental car accident, regardless of whether or not you were the driver of the rental car, UM coverage can apply. The questions to ask are (1) did the negligent driver have any insurance and (2) did the negligent driver have enough insurance to cover your injuries. If the answer to either of those questions is no and you have UM coverage, you will likely be able to make a claim with your insurance company.
Call a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been involved in a car accident involving a rental car, The Mahone Firm is here to help. Call (504) 564-7342 to discuss your potential claim with a personal injury attorney today. There is no charge for a consultation.
