Louisiana attracts millions of visitors every year, and many of them use a rental car to explore our beautiful state. But when a rental car is involved in an accident, the question of who pays for injuries and damages can quickly become complicated.
If you were hurt in a collision involving a rental vehicle, whether you were driving it, riding in it, or hit by one, you need the help of a Baton Rouge accident attorney.
At Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, we have the experience, skills, and resources to investigate your accident to identify all causes and liable parties and help you secure maximum compensation for your claim.
Call our car accident lawyers at (225) 999-1111 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case. We’re available 24/7, and you won’t pay until we recover for you.
Why Rental Car Accidents Happen in Louisiana
Rental car accidents often happen for the same reasons as other motor vehicle collisions, including distracted driving, impaired driving, and speeding. However, rental cars introduce additional risk factors that can increase the likelihood of a crash.
Some common causes of rental car accidents in Louisiana include:
- Unfamiliarity with the vehicle. Rental cars often have different handling, braking systems, or technology interfaces than what the driver uses at home.
- Unfamiliarity with local roads. Out-of-town drivers may not be familiar with local traffic patterns, speed limits, or highway interchanges.
- Navigation distractions. Drivers relying on GPS or looking at maps while driving are at higher risk of missing traffic signals or failing to see other vehicles.
- Fatigue. Travelers arriving after long flights or road trips may be drowsy behind the wheel.
- Impairment. Visitors enjoying Louisiana’s nightlife may underestimate their level of impairment before getting on the road.
None of these factors excuses negligent driving. When a rental car driver causes an accident, they should be held responsible. An experienced car accident attorney in Baton Rouge understands how to prove negligence in these complex scenarios.
How Insurance Works in a Louisiana Rental Car Accident
Insurance coverage in rental car accidents can involve multiple layers, which is one reason these claims are more complex than a standard two-car collision.
The Rental Driver’s Personal Auto Insurance
Louisiana does not require renters to purchase insurance directly from the rental company if they already carry valid personal auto insurance. In most cases, a driver’s existing policy extends coverage to a rental vehicle. If the renter caused the accident, their personal liability coverage is typically the first line of compensation for injured parties.
The Rental Company’s Insurance
If a renter has no personal auto insurance, Louisiana law requires them to purchase coverage from the rental company. This coverage satisfies the state’s minimum financial responsibility requirements but may provide limited protection. Louisiana’s minimum liability limits are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
Credit Card Coverage
Many credit cards offer secondary rental car coverage, which may apply after other insurance has been exhausted. This typically covers vehicle damage rather than bodily injury.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance, your own UM/UIM coverage may provide an additional source of compensation. Louisiana law prohibits insurers from raising your premiums simply because you file a UM/UIM claim. A car accident lawyer can help you navigate these complex coverage layers to maximize your recovery.
Speak to an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Today
Rental car accident claims can be complex. They often involve multiple insurance policies, overlapping coverage issues, and parties working hard to minimize their liability.
At Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, we cut through the confusion, identify all available sources of compensation, and work to secure maximum recovery for you. Our Baton Rouge car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling rental car accident claims and know how to counter insurance company tactics.
Call our team of car accident attorneys at (225) 999-1111 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation and discuss your Louisiana rental car accident claim.