If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, you may be wondering what to do in the event of a rental car accident.
Understanding the nuances of rental car accidents in Arizona can be confusing, especially if you’re from out of state.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona is an “at fault” state, which means that the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages.
- Common causes of rental car accidents in Arizona include distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence.
- Dealing with insurance companies and their adjusters after a rental car accident can be complicated, but it’s important to understand your rights and obligations under the law.
Why Contact the Law Gang
If you were injured in a car accident involving a rental car then you deserve to be compensated. That is precisely what insurance is for and why it exists.
Yet, after a rental car wreck, it can be quite difficult for an every day person to get the compensation benefits they are entitled to.
We assist with rental car injuries throughout the state of Arizona to include the counties of:
- Gila
- Pima
- Cochise
- Apache
After an injury involving a rental car there are usually countless out of pocket expenses that the victim will need assistance with including:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages from having to miss work (due to doctor visits or due to not being able to perform the functions of the job
- Transportation / fuel costs to see medical providers
- The opportunity cost of missing family outings due to having to spend time on the injury
Fighting the insurance companies with their lawyers is no easy task which is why you need help and should call the Law Gang today.
We will do the dirty work of negotiation and dealing with the insurance companies so you don’t have to.
No person should have to take on this battle themselves let alone try and get healthy at the same time. It is simply too much for one person to do.
The Law Gang will work hard for you and will try to get the highest settlement possible to make up for your pain, suffering, missed work, doctor / chiropractor bills and other out of pocket expense.
Contact us today even if your accident was not rental car related.
We also help with sporting event injuries, department store accidents and fast food accidental injuries like Del Taco or Wendy’s.
Arizona an At Fault State
In Arizona, the fault system is used to determine who is responsible for a car accident and who should be held liable for damages.
Arizona is an at-fault state, which means that the person who is at fault for the accident is responsible for paying for the damages.
Under the at-fault system, the insurance company of the at-fault driver is responsible for paying for the damages and injuries caused by the accident.
If you are involved in a rental car accident in Arizona, it is important to determine who is at fault for the accident.
Rental car injuries can happen throughout the state of Arizona to include big thoroughfares and side streets like:
- Superstition Freeway
- Black Canyon Freeway
- Alta Vista Rd.
- 13th St.
- Bryce Lane
- Papagayo Freeway
If you are found to be at fault for the accident, you may be responsible for paying for the damages and injuries caused by the accident.
On the other hand, if the other driver is found to be at fault for the accident, their insurance company will be responsible for paying for the damages and injuries.
It is important to note that Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages.
The amount of damages you can recover will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Overall, it is important to understand Arizona’s fault system and how it can impact your rights and responsibilities after a rental car accident.
Regardless of if your injury occurred in Sedona, Flagstaff or Casa Adobes the Law Gang can help.
Rental Car Accident Concerns
When it comes to rental car accidents in Arizona, there are several common concerns that drivers may have. In this section, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding rental car accidents in the state.
Types of Injuries
The types of injuries that can result from a rental car accident in Arizona can vary depending on the severity of the collision.
Some of the most common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. In more severe cases, rental car accidents can even result in fatalities.
Common Causes for a Rental Car Accidents
There are many potential causes for rental car accidents in Arizona, including distracted driving, speeding, reckless driving, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Poor road conditions, defective vehicle parts, and inclement weather can also contribute to rental car accidents.
Length of a Rental Car Suit
The length of time it takes to resolve a rental car accident lawsuit in Arizona can vary depending on several factors.
These may include the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries sustained, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement.
In some cases, rental car accident lawsuits can take several months or even years to resolve.
Arizona Rental Car Accident Statistics
According to data from the Arizona Department of Transportation, there were over 127,000 total crashes in the state in 2020. Of these, over 11,000 involved rental cars. These accidents resulted in over 3,500 injuries and 58 fatalities.
It is important for drivers to exercise caution and drive defensively when operating a rental car in Arizona to minimize the risk of being involved in an accident.
Insurance and Legal Aspects of Rental Car Accidents
Dealing With the Insurance
Dealing with insurance companies after a rental car accident in Arizona can be overwhelming and confusing. It is important to understand that Arizona is an “at fault” state, which means that the person responsible for the accident is liable for damages.
If you were not at fault, you will need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. If you were at fault, you will need to file a claim with your own insurance company or the rental car company’s insurance.
Does It Matter Who Was Driving
Yes, it matters who was driving the rental car when the accident occurred. If the driver was authorized by the rental car company and was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the rental car company’s insurance will cover the damages.
However, if the driver was not authorized or was under the influence, the rental car company may not cover the damages.
What Is Subrogation?
Subrogation is the process by which an insurance company seeks reimbursement from the responsible party for damages it has paid out to its insured.
This matters in rental car accidents because if your insurance company pays for damages and later determines that the other driver was at fault, they may seek reimbursement from the other driver’s insurance company through subrogation.
Rental Car Insurance
Rental car insurance can come into play when there is an accidental injury by covering medical expenses and lost wages for the driver and passengers.
However, it is important to note that rental car insurance is not mandatory and may have limitations or exclusions. It is recommended to review the rental car company’s insurance policy carefully before renting a car.
Rental Car Company Insurance
Rental car companies typically have insurance policies that meet state minimums, but it is important to review the policy carefully and understand any limitations or exclusions.
It is also recommended to check if your personal auto insurance or credit card provides rental car coverage. Trusting the rental car company’s insurance ultimately depends on the individual’s comfort level and understanding of the policy.
Statute of Limitations
In Arizona, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims resulting from a car accident is two years from the date of the accident.
It is important to file a claim within this timeframe to avoid losing the right to seek compensation for damages.
Managing Post-Accident Procedures
After being involved in a rental car accident in Arizona, it is important to take certain steps to manage the post-accident procedures. Here are some guidelines to follow:
How to Deal With Medical Bills
If you were injured in a rental car accident in Arizona, you may be facing significant medical bills. The first step is to seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if you do not feel any pain or discomfort.
Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show symptoms until hours or even days after the accident.
Once you have received medical treatment, you should notify your insurance company and the rental car company’s insurance provider. They will work together to determine who is responsible for paying your medical bills.
It is important to keep detailed records of all medical bills and expenses related to the accident. This includes bills for doctor visits, hospital stays, medication, and physical therapy. You should also keep track of any lost wages due to time off work.
If you are having difficulty paying your medical bills, you may want to consider hiring an attorney to help you negotiate with the insurance companies. An experienced attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.
In conclusion, managing post-accident procedures after a rental car accident in Arizona can be overwhelming.
However, by following these guidelines and seeking the help of an attorney if necessary, you can ensure that your medical bills are taken care of and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
