Accident with a rental car: What should you do?

Accident with a rental car: What to do and who pays? Our tips to respond appropriately, file an accident report, and understand your rights.

An accident involving a rental car raises many questions—for both the driver and the rental professional. Who’s responsible? What steps should be taken immediately? How do you properly fill out an accident report, and most importantly, who covers the repair costs? Whether you’re a private individual traveling or a rental company aiming to reduce risk, it’s essential to know the right steps to take. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to do after an accident, how liability is determined, and best practices for minimizing incidents in a rental car business—especially when using the myrentpad app.

What is an accident involving a rental car?

An accident involving a rental car refers to any incident with a rented vehicle—whether it’s a minor scratch on a rental vehicle, a more serious collision with another party, or even damage caused without direct impact (such as vandalism or severe weather). These situations typically involve multiple parties: the renter, the rental company, and possibly other drivers.

It differs from an accident with a personal vehicle due to the specific obligations tied to the rental agreement, the insurance coverage in place, and the renter’s contractual responsibilities. Clearly understanding what a rental car accident involves helps ensure the right response and can prevent legal or financial complications.

What are the first steps to take after an accident with a rental vehicle?

An accident with a rental vehicle requires quick, calm action—starting with checking the condition of the driver, passengers, and anyone else involved. The safety of all individuals is the top priority. If there are any injuries or uncertainty, calling emergency services is essential to get immediate help.

If the accident was caused by a traffic violation, the police must also be notified right away. To ensure on-site safety, the rental vehicle should be equipped with a warning triangle, safety vest, and an accident report form—these should be confirmed during the initial check-out inspection. Once everyone is safe, assess the damage to the rental vehicle and any other property involved.

How to fill out an accident report with a rental car

Filing an accident report with a rental car is a mandatory step, regardless of the driver’s level of responsibility. This document is essential for officially documenting the circumstances of the accident and initiating the insurance process. It must be completed carefully, including: the date, time, and location of the accident, a detailed description of the events, license plate numbers, contact details of the drivers, vehicle information, visible damage, and whether any witnesses or other parties were involved. If law enforcement is called to the scene, it’s highly recommended to request a copy of the police report, which will support the insurance claim along with the accident report.

Once the report is completed, the renter must immediately notify the rental company to declare the incident. That’s why it’s critical to provide the customer with an emergency contact number that is clearly visible on the rental agreement or inside the vehicle. After an initial assessment, the rental company can determine whether the vehicle is still drivable or if assistance is needed (towing, replacement, etc.). Fast communication ensures a prompt start to the insurance process and effective claims handling.

Accident with a rental car: Who pays?

In the event of an accident with a rental car, who pays for the repairs mainly depends on the driver’s level of responsibility and the coverage outlined in the rental agreement. If the renter is found to be at fault, they may be responsible for the repair costs, up to the amount of the deductible—unless they purchased additional insurance that reduces or eliminates that deductible.

If a third party is identified and found responsible, their insurance will cover the damages. On the other hand, if no third party can be identified (for example, in a hit-and-run), the renter may have to cover the costs unless a specific type of coverage applies. The rental company plays a key role by clearly informing the customer about insurance options, deductibles, and exclusions to help avoid misunderstandings in the event of a claim.

What are your rights after an accident with a rental car?

Your rights after an accident with a rental car are defined by the rental agreement and applicable regulations. Renters have the right to be clearly informed about the steps to take, to access key documents such as the accident report and rental contract, and to fully understand the terms of the coverage they’ve chosen—especially regarding deductibles and insurance.

If the renter has additional personal insurance, it may also be used to cover the damages. In case of a dispute over liability or charges, the renter has the right to challenge the claim with the rental company and, if necessary, escalate the issue to a mediator or relevant regulatory authorities. Contract transparency and consumer protection are central to the rights of renters when dealing with an accident.

Rental car companies: How to prevent accidents with a rental car

How to prevent accidents with a rental car? For rental companies, the answer lies in strong prevention measures and efficient fleet management. Providing vehicles that are well-maintained, regularly inspected, and in perfect working condition is essential. Just as important is clearly informing customers about driving rules, insurance coverage, and what steps to take in case of an incident. Performing a thorough vehicle inspection at both pick-up and return is also crucial to minimizing disputes.

The myrentpad app enables rental companies to carry out detailed vehicle inspections directly on a tablet or smartphone, complete with photos and digital signatures. In parallel, myrentcar software ensures full control over contracts, claim tracking, and the management of disputes thanks to centralized data. Combined, these tools help rental professionals enhance their operations while reducing the risk of accidents and legal issues. For more expert advice and best practices, visit our blog for car rental businesses.