19 Jun Compensation claim for accident with a rented car
Road traffic accident claims are common in Ireland. But when it comes to an accident with a rented car, it may be less clear who you can make a claim against. If you are involved in a crash with a rental car that wasn’t your fault, you might be entitled to compensation for injuries and expenses.
What to do after a rental car accident
Being involved in a car collision can be traumatic and as with any road traffic incident, you should prioritise your health. If anyone is injured, call for medical assistance. If you’re uninjured or have received medical attention, you can then document the event.
After an accident with a rented car, you should:
- Exchange personal details with the driver who caused the accident
- Get the driver’s insurance details
- Get the rental car company’s details
- Note the vehicle’s registration, make and model
- Take photos of the scene and its location
- Get contact details of any witnesses
- Report the accident to Gardaí
- Report it to your insurance company
Proving liability in an accident with a rental car
A rental car accident could occur because the driver is unaware of Ireland’s rules of the road. Maybe they’re accustomed to driving on the other side of the street. Or perhaps, the accident was simply as a result of dangerous driving.
Whatever the reason, if the accident was caused by the negligence of the rental car driver, you can make a claim against their insurance policy. Third party insurance is compulsory when renting a car in Ireland. Documenting the incident will help you make a claim, but negligence can be difficult to establish.
If the accident was caused by poor road maintenance, liability may lie with the local council or a private landowner. If the crash was caused by a fault in the rental car, the rental company may be liable for failing to maintain the vehicle.
It is also possible that you may be liable to some extent. If you were speeding, this would exacerbate the effects of the crash, and you will be partially liable. Or maybe you contributed to your own injuries by forgoing medical attention; this is another reason to prioritise your health over documenting a rental car accident.
If the accident is serious, the Gardaí will investigate and determine the negligent party.
What compensation can I claim?
Each case is different but, if the crash was caused by a third party, you might be entitled to compensation covering:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income
- Damages to your car
A solicitor will be able to advise you on your claim.
If you have been involved in an accident with a rented car, contact a solicitor as soon as possible. When you contact Ferrys Solicitors LLP Personal Injury and Accident Solicitors, one of our road traffic accident solicitors will help with you attribute negligence and advise you on your case.
