Oakland Rental Car Accident Attorney
Whether you are from out of town and need a rental vehicle in Oakland or are local and need some temporary transportation, a rental vehicle is always an option. However, accidents can happen anywhere and anytime, and crashes involving rental vehicles are not uncommon. If you or a loved one have been injured or sustained property damage in a collision involving a rental vehicle in the Oakland area, we encourage you to reach out to an Oakland car accident attorney as soon as possible. An Oakland rental car accident lawyer can help you understand your options and work towards recovering the compensation you need.
Why Choose Milanfar Law Firm?
At Milanfar Law Firm, PC, we understand that rental car accidents present unique challenges. Rental vehicles often involve multiple insurance policies, making the claims process more complicated. Whether you are dealing with your personal insurance, the rental car company’s policy, or the at-fault driver’s insurer, we are here to guide you through the process. Our experienced California trial lawyers have handled numerous rental car accident cases and has the knowledge to navigate the legal and insurance systems effectively.
Determining Who Pays for Damages After a Rental Car Accident
Determining who is responsible for paying damages after a rental car accident can be complicated due to the involvement of multiple parties. The following insurance policies may come into play:
1. Rental Car Company Insurance
Rental car companies in California are required to carry minimum liability insurance for their vehicles. This coverage is typically limited and may not be enough to cover all damages, especially in serious accidents.
2. Your Personal Auto Insurance.
If you have your own auto insurance, your policy may extend to rental cars. This could include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage depending on your plan. However, it is crucial to verify your coverage with your insurance provider before assuming you are fully covered.
3. Credit Card Supplemental Coverage.
Many credit cards offer rental car insurance as a benefit, but this coverage is usually limited to damage to the rental vehicle itself. It may not cover liability for injuries or damages to others involved in the accident.
4. The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance.
If another driver was responsible for the accident, their liability insurance should cover the damages. However, if the at-fault driver didn’t have insurance, recovering compensation may become more difficult.
Do You Need a Lawyer After a Rental Car Accident?
While not every accident requires legal assistance, rental car accidents often involve more complex legal and insurance issues than typical car accidents. Here are some reasons why having an Oakland rental car accident lawyer on your side can be beneficial:
1. Navigating Multiple Insurance Policies
Dealing with multiple insurance companies—your own, the rental company’s, and possibly the at-fault driver’s—can be confusing and overwhelming. An Oakland personal injury lawyer will prevent you from being taken advantage of by handling tricky communication issues for you.
2. Proving Liability
Determining fault in a car accident can be tricky, especially a rental car accident, if the other driver disputes liability. A skilled attorney from our team will investigate the accident, gather all available evidence, and build a strong case to prove who was responsible.
3. Maximizing Compensation
Insurance companies often try to offer low settlements, particularly in cases involving rental cars. A skilled attorney will fight for the full amount you deserve, including compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Common Causes of Rental Car Accidents in Oakland
Rental car accidents can happen for many of the same reasons as other vehicle accidents, but certain factors may increase the likelihood of a collision:
- Unfamiliarity with the Vehicle. Drivers may not be as familiar with the handling or features of a rental car, which can lead to mistakes.
- Tourists or Out-of-Town Drivers. Drivers who are not familiar with Oakland’s roads, traffic patterns, or weather conditions may be more prone to accidents.
- Increased Traffic. Oakland has high traffic volumes, particularly during rush hours and near major attractions, leading to a higher likelihood of collisions.
Contact an Oakland Rental Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rental car accident in Oakland, the team at Milanfar Law Firm, PC, is here to help. We understand the unique challenges rental car accidents present and are ready to guide you through the legal process. You can reach us for a free consultation of your claim by filling out our contact form or calling us at (925) 433-6003.