Having an accident with a rental car can be distressing due to potential material and emotional losses, as well as the bureaucratic procedures involved. Common causes of traffic accidents in our country include careless driving, drunk driving, failure to obey traffic signals and rules, damage to infrastructure, wild animals, and mistakes made by other parties. Let’s explore what can be done in the event of an accident with both a private car and a rental car.
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Preventive Measures
The easiest and most effective way to prevent traffic accidents is through preventive measures. Adhering to traffic rules, avoiding driving while fatigued or intoxicated, ensuring regular vehicle maintenance, and addressing both micro and macro-level issues can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents with both private and rental vehicles.
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Traffic Insurance and Motor Insurance
While compulsory traffic insurance and motor insurance do not prevent accidents, they are crucial for managing their consequences. It is essential for private car owners and car rental companies to ensure they have adequate coverage. We previously wrote a detailed article about rental car insurance and its importance for both renters and rental companies.
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Keep Calm
Remaining calm during an accident is crucial. Since accidents are a common part of life, maintaining composure during and after the incident will help manage both health concerns and potential damage.
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Life Safety First
Prioritize your health and safety in the event of an accident. If injured, be prepared to apply first aid and contact emergency services without delay. Additionally, if the accident poses risks to other drivers, use appropriate beacons to warn them, as momentary distractions can endanger lives.
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Record Keeping
For material damage accidents, it is sufficient to exchange information between the parties involved. Both drivers should record the details, take photos, and collect information about the other party. Compulsory traffic insurance and motor insurance require complete and accurate reports and additional documentation to cover losses.
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Contacting the Authorities
If involved in an accident with a rental car, inform the rental company immediately. Rental companies can expedite the process by providing guidance, towing services, roadside assistance, and potentially offering a replacement vehicle.
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Compensation for Damage
Rental car insurance is legally required for rental vehicles. It’s important to understand the scope and conditions of the insurance, as outlined in the rental agreement. Carefully read the contract to understand the coverage and rights provided.
Compulsory traffic insurance covers damages to other parties but excludes coverage for drunk driving, driving under the influence of drugs, driving without a license, and accidents caused by unauthorized drivers.
For car rental companies, tracking vehicles is crucial for both commercial and security purposes. With Titarus’s vehicle tracking modules, you can monitor vehicle usage, maintenance, repair processes, and other critical criteria.