Hiring a Tampa Auto Accident Lawyer for Injuries in a Rental Car Accident

Just like the rest of Florida, the Tampa Bay area is a popular tourist spot, which also means it is a place where rental cars are common. Whether you are a tourist visiting Clearwater Beach or you are a year-round Tampa resident who rented a car while your own vehicle was in the shop, you have the right to assume that your rental car is free from defects or unsafe parts that may cause an accident or injuries. If you believe your rental car or rental truck was unsafe to drive and you suffered injuries because of it, a Tampa auto accident lawyer can advise you of your rights and help establish the facts in your case.

Rental cars and rental trucks see a lot of use, and the drivers who rent these vehicles are not always as prudent as they should be. After cars and trucks are returned, the rental company is responsible for inspecting their vehicles to ensure that the brakes, tires, steering, and general condition of their cars and trucks are safe. If the rental company does not inspect their vehicles for roadworthiness, the company could be negligent if an accident occurred.

When you read the fine print of a contract to rent a car or truck, you may notice that the rental company says it will not be held liable for faulty vehicles. Even if you signed this agreement, you should consult with a Tampa auto accident lawyer about your rights in a rental car accident. There are laws in place to protect you, as well as laws holding negligent companies responsible for acting without reasonable care.

There are also cases in which the driver of a rental car or truck causes an accident with injuries. The rental company may be held responsible for these accidents if they negligently rented a car to someone who was not competent or fit to drive. In addition, just like other drivers, rental car drivers are required to carry their own insurance to protect others on the road.

When you rent a car or truck, it may be worth the nominal cost to purchase insurance from the rental company so that injuries would be covered in an accident. Before you rent a vehicle, check with your own auto insurance provider and your credit card company to find out if either of them provides coverage for rentals.

If you are in an accident with injuries involving a rental car or truck, you should report the accident to the police, the rental company, and your insurance company. Do not, however, admit fault or agree to a settlement for your injuries until you speak with a Tampa auto accident lawyer. The Law Firm of Dale Appell, P.A. provides a free assessment of personal injury cases in the greater Tampa Bay area. Please call us or click on our "Do I have a case?" link to learn more. We represent the injured in Tampa and all surrounding communities in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Hernando, and beyond including Sarasota, Lutz, Dunedin, New Port Richey, St Petersburg, Bradenton, Brandon, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Largo, Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Brandon, Sun City Center, Riverview and Apollo Beach.