Imagine you’re on a weekend getaway, driving a rental car through scenic Ozarks. Suddenly, another vehicle cuts you off, and you find yourself in a fender bender—or worse. A rental car accident can be particularly stressful, especially when you’re far from home and unsure of what steps to take. This guide will help you navigate the immediate aftermath and protect your rights if you’re in a rental car accident in Arkansas.
1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety and Move to a Safe Location
First things first: safety. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to request medical help. Even if no one appears injured, moving to a safe location is still a good idea if you’re on a busy road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, and wait for help to arrive.
2. Contact the Police and File a Report
Arkansas law requires that any accident resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage be reported to the police. Calling the police to the scene can also provide you with a record of the incident, which will be helpful when dealing with insurance claims later on. The responding officer will document the accident and give you a report number that you can reference when needed.
3. Exchange Information with the Other Driver
In any car accident involving rental vehicles, you’ll need to exchange information with the other driver. Collect their:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance details, including the policy number
Provide them with your information as well, but avoid admitting fault or discussing specifics of the accident at this stage. Anything you say could be used against you later on, so keep your conversation brief and to the point.
4. Document the Scene
Gather as much evidence as possible while still at the accident scene. Take photos of:
- The damage to both vehicles
- The surrounding area, including road signs, traffic signals, and road conditions
- Any visible injuries you or your passengers may have
- Skid marks or debris on the road
The more evidence you have, the easier it will be to demonstrate what happened and who may be at fault. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information, as they could be helpful later in the claims process.
5. Notify the Rental Car Company
Contact the rental car company to inform them about the accident immediately. Most rental car agreements require you to notify the company if the vehicle is involved in an accident. They may have specific instructions or policies to follow, so keeping them in the loop is essential.
Many rental companies provide emergency contact numbers on the rental agreement or a sticker inside the car. Explain the situation calmly and provide any requested details. Depending on the terms of your rental, you might need to bring the vehicle back to the rental location or have it towed there.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company and Review Coverage
Insurance coverage can be confusing when a rental car is involved. Call your auto insurance provider to discuss what’s covered under your policy. Personal auto insurance often extends to rental vehicles, so you may already have some protection.
If you purchased additional rental car insurance through the rental company or your credit card, this coverage may also come into play. Let your insurer know about any coverage you bought through the rental agency so they can guide you on the best steps.
7. Seek Medical Attention if Needed
Some injuries from car accidents don’t show up right away, like whiplash or other soft tissue injuries. It’s wise to see a doctor even if you feel okay initially. Medical documentation can be critical if you need to file an injury claim later on, as it establishes a record of the injuries and their link to the accident.
8. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney if Necessary
If you’re facing challenges with the rental company or the insurance process—or if you’ve sustained serious injuries—it may be time to speak with a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Stay Prepared on the Road
An accident in a rental car is never part of the plan, but following these steps can help you handle the situation confidently. Before hitting the road, take a few minutes to review your rental agreement and insurance coverage so you’re familiar with your protection. Knowing what to do in an emergency can make all the difference, allowing you to handle the unexpected with less stress. If you’re involved in a rental car accident in Arkansas, talk to our experienced injury attorneys.