San Antonio Rental Car Accidents

Because San Antonio is a popular tourist destination, it’s more likely that someone involved in a car accident here may have a rental car. Sorting out legal claims related to rental cars can be complicated, but the experienced San Antonio car accident lawyers at The Aguirre Law Firm, PLLC know what to anticipate. We can review the circumstances surrounding the accident, gather evidence, and determine who is financially responsible for your damages.

Possible Causes of Rental Car Accidents in San Antonio

It’s useful to understand some of the factors that can contribute to rental accidents, which might include:

• Unfamiliarity with the roadway – Tourists may not be familiar with the roadways or local traffic patterns. They may drive the wrong way down one-way roads or be distracted when listening to navigation systems.
• Drunk driving – Visitors on vacation may enjoy the great nightlife the city has to offer and make the dangerous decision to get behind the wheel.
• Distractions – Tourists may bask in the views and culture rather than paying attention to other motorists.
• Fatigue – Vacations can sometimes be exhausting when taking in all the sights during the day and partying at night. Drivers may be tired, which can mimic impairment by alcohol.
• Violating road rules – Just like any other accident involving locals, car crashes can occur when drivers disobey traffic rules, such as running red lights or stop signs, speeding, failing to yield the right-of-way, or following too closely.

Texas is an at-fault state for car insurance, so the driver at fault for the accident is responsible for paying for damages. However, the person renting the vehicle is not necessarily at fault. An experienced lawyer can investigate the case and prove liability.

What to Do After a Rental Car Accident in San Antonio

Car accidents can be confusing, but taking the right steps can help protect your health and legal rights. Follow these proactive steps after getting in a San Antonio rental car accident:

• Call 911 to report the accident and request an ambulance.
• Use first aid to help anyone who is injured before EMTs arrive.
• Ask the other driver for their name, address, phone number, driver’s license information, and insurance information.
• Ask for information about the rental car, such as where the driver got the vehicle, whether they purchased insurance from the car rental company, and whether they used a credit card to pay for the rental.
• Take pictures of the accident scene, the vehicles’ positions, damage to all vehicles involved, your injuries, and any other relevant information, including traffic lights, signs, intersections, and cross streets.
• Photograph the rental car company paperwork.
• Ask witnesses for their contact information.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you were not transported by ambulance to the hospital.
• Keep all your medical records.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney

One of the most important steps you can take after getting in an accident involving a rental car is to contact an experienced car accident lawyer. The San Antonio injury lawyers at Aguirre Law Firm, PLLC have extensive experience handling all types of car accident claims. Contact us by filling out a free case review form online or by calling us at (210) 538-6477.