Pearland Rental Car Accident Lawyer

A serious injury from a rental car accident can turn your life upside down, leaving you to grapple with physical pain, emotional distress, and mounting medical bills. Navigating the legal complexities while trying to recover can be overwhelming. 

That’s where an experienced Pearland rental car accident lawyer can make a difference. At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve, guiding you through dealing with medical expenses and potential lost wages due to your injuries.

Working with DeHoyos Accident Attorneys means partnering with a dedicated team that understands the unique challenges of rental car accident cases.

Causes of Car Rental Accidents in Pearland

Rental car accidents can happen for various reasons, often due to the negligence of other drivers on the road. Here are some common causes of rental car accidents in Pearland:

Distracted Driving

Texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving can significantly increase the risk of an accident.

Speeding

Exceeding the speed limit is a significant factor in many car accidents and can worsen the severity of injuries.

Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime that puts everyone on the road at risk.

Reckless Driving

Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or running red lights can lead to devastating collisions.

Fatigued Driving

Drowsiness can impair your judgment and reaction time just as much as alcohol intoxication.

Weather Conditions

Rain, fog, or icy roads can create hazardous driving conditions and require extra caution.

Common Injuries from Rental Auto Accidents

Physical injuries:

Whiplash

This soft tissue injury affects the muscles and ligaments in your neck. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, and headaches. 

Lacerations

Cuts and scrapes can range from minor to severe. Depending on the depth and location, they may require stitches, bandages, and potential scarring.

Burns

Burns can cause significant pain and scarring, depending on the severity and degree. Treatment may involve medication, physical therapy, and even skin grafts in severe cases.

Nerve damage

Injuries to nerves can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. Nerve damage can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the injury.

Brain injuries

Concussions and other head injuries can have a wide range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating. 

Spinal injuries

These are some of the most severe injuries that can occur in a car accident. Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and other debilitating complications.

Organ damage

Internal injuries to organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Fractures

Broken bones can cause significant pain and require casting or surgery to heal correctly. Recovery time can vary greatly depending on the location and severity of the fracture.

Loss of limbs

In the most severe accidents, amputation may be necessary. This can be a life-altering event requiring extensive rehabilitation and prosthetics.

Emotional injuries:

The emotional trauma caused by a car accident can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. Here are some common emotional injuries:

Anxiety

You may experience anxiety symptoms such as fear, worry, and difficulty sleeping after a car accident.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

PTSD is a serious mental health condition that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance of reminders of the accident.

Depression due to change in lifestyle

A car accident can significantly impact your ability to work, participate in activities you enjoy, and maintain relationships. This can lead to feelings of depression and isolation.

Emotional pains from the death of a loved one

In the tragic event of losing a loved one in a rental car accident, the emotional pain can be overwhelming.

Why Your Rental Car Accident Attorney Cares About Fault

Determining fault in a rental car accident is crucial for securing compensation. Fault can lie with the driver, the rental car company, or even a third party. Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to establish who is responsible and hold them accountable.

Why Choose Us? How the DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Can  Help!

Choosing DeHoyos Accident Attorneys ensures that you have a dedicated legal team by your side. 

Investigating the Accident: Collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing accident reports.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Working to secure the maximum settlement for your injuries.

Providing Legal Guidance: Helping you understand your rights and the legal process.

Representing You in Court: Taking your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

How Insurance Works in a Rental Car Accident Case

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of rental car insurance and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve

Rental Car Company Insurance: 

Rental car companies offer optional insurance coverage you can purchase during rental. These typically include:

Your Auto Insurance: 

Your car insurance policy may extend coverage to rental vehicles. This typically applies to liability coverage (protecting you from financial responsibility for injuries or property damage caused to others) and collision coverage (paying for repairs to the rental car). 

However, coverage limits and exclusions may apply, so reviewing your policy details is crucial.

Understanding Rental Car Insurance Options

Rental car accidents can be stressful, and dealing with insurance can add another layer of complexity. 

Traditional Rental Car Company Coverage:

Rental car companies offer optional insurance coverage at the time of rental. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

Liability Insurance (LI): 

This covers injuries or property damage caused to others while driving the rental car. Minimum liability coverage is usually required by law, but you can purchase additional coverage for more excellent protection.

Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): 

This waives your financial responsibility for damage to the rental car, except in cases where the rental company proves you were negligent (e.g., speeding, drunk driving). Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is a similar option some companies may offer.

Credit Card Coverage:

 Some credit cards offer rental car insurance benefits as a perk for using their card. Review your credit card benefits guide to see if this coverage applies and what limitations exist. It’s important to note that credit card coverage may be secondary to other insurance policies.

Compensation After Turo Accidents

Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform where individuals can rent vehicles from each other. While Turo offers basic insurance coverage, it’s crucial to understand how compensation works after an accident.

Turo Coverage Options:

Turo offers various protection plans that renters can purchase to reduce their financial responsibility in case of an accident. These plans typically cover damage to the rented vehicle but may only cover some things.

Here’s a link to Turo’s guest charges for damage claims: Turo Damage Claim Charges.

Compensation for Injuries:

Turo’s insurance covers the rented vehicle but generally doesn’t cover injuries sustained by the driver, passengers, or others involved in an accident.

Here’s where things can get complicated. Depending on the circumstances, compensation for injuries may come from:

Your Auto Insurance: 

Suppose you have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage on your auto insurance policy. In that case, it may cover your medical expenses and lost wages after a Turo accident, even if you were driving a rented vehicle.

The Turo Host’s Insurance: 

Some Turo hosts carry personal auto insurance policies that extend coverage to renters in case of an accident. However, this depends on the specific details of the host’s insurance plan.

The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance: 

If another driver caused the accident, you may be able to file a claim against their liability insurance policy to recover compensation for your injuries.

Liability of Turo Hosts and Car Rental Companies

When renting a car from Turo, it’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of the rental agreement and any additional insurance purchased by the host. Documenting any pre-existing damage to the vehicle before driving it is also highly recommended.

Turo Terms of Service and Liability

Following a Turo accident, navigating the complexities of liability and insurance coverage can be overwhelming. An experienced Pearland rental car accident attorney from DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

How To File a Rental Car Accident Claim

Filing a rental car accident claim involves:

1. Check Yourself for Injuries: Prioritize your health and safety.
2. Call 9-1-1: Report the accident and get medical help.
3. Get Others’ Information: Exchange contact and insurance details.
4. Contact Our Office: Speak with DeHoyos Accident Attorneys to begin your claim.
5. Investigation: Our team will gather evidence and build your case.
6. Pursue a Settlement: We negotiate with insurers to achieve a fair settlement.
7. Take Your Case to Trial if Needed: We are prepared to litigate to secure your compensation.

How Much Can I Get From a Rental Car Accident Claim?

The amount you can recover from a rental car accident claim depends on various factors, including:

• Medical Expenses: Current and future medical costs.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
• Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle.

How Long Does a Rental Car Accident Case Take? 

The duration of a rental car accident case can vary based on the complexity of the accident, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of insurance companies to settle. Some cases may resolve in a few months, while others could take years if they go to trial.

Steps to Take After a Rental Vehicle Accident

Immediate Steps:

1. Check Yourself for Injuries: Ensure your safety first.
2. Call 9-1-1: Report the accident and request medical assistance.
3. Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance details from all parties involved.

Follow-Up Steps:

4. Contact Our Office: Reach out to DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for legal assistance.
5. Investigation: Allow our team to gather evidence and build your case.
6. Pursue a Settlement: We will negotiate with insurers on your behalf.
7. Trial if Needed: We are prepared to take your case to court.

Client Testimonials

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you face after a rental car accident. We are dedicated to fighting tirelessly for the compensation you deserve. 

Here’s what some of our past clients have to say about their experience with our firm:

“The emotional trauma after my rental car accident was overwhelming. DeHoyos Accident Attorneys provided compassionate support and expert guidance every step of the way. I am incredibly grateful for their help during this difficult time.” – Alice L.

Pearland Rental Car Accident FAQ’s

Can I Get a Rental While My Car Is Being Repaired?

Yes, depending on your insurance policy and the rental company’s terms, you may be eligible for a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired.

Will My Car Be Repaired or Replaced?

Whether your car is repaired or replaced depends on the extent of the damage. If the vehicle is deemed a total loss, you may receive compensation based on its value.

What Are My Rights If My Car Is Repaired After an Accident in Texas?

You have the right to have your car repaired to its pre-accident condition. Ensure that all repairs are documented and performed by a reputable repair shop.

What Are My Rights If My Car Is Totaled?

If your car is totaled, you are entitled to compensation based on its market value before the accident. This may involve negotiations with your insurance company.

Can I Recover for My Car’s Diminished Value?

Yes, you can seek compensation for the diminished value of your car after repairs. This accounts for the loss in market value due to the accident history.

Contact the Pearland Rental Car Accident Attorneys at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Today!

If you or a loved one has been involved in a rental car accident, contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for a free consultation. Our experienced Pearland rental car accident lawyers are here to advocate for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Schedule your consultation today.