Car accidents are jarring and stressful experiences for everyone involved, but they can become even more complicated when driving a rental vehicle. In Boston, MA, where the streets are heavily trafficked and winding, the probability of getting into an accident is high. In such cases, it is crucial to be aware of the legal considerations involved when driving a rental vehicle.
If you find yourself in such an unfortunate situation, the best course of action would be to talk to a car accident lawyer in Boston to help you navigate through the legal complexities.
Reporting the Incident
The first step after an accident, whether you are driving a rental or your vehicle, is to report the incident. If there are injuries or property damage, call 911. If the accident is minor, move the vehicle to the side of the road and exchange information with the other driver(s).
You should then contact the rental company and inform them about the incident. Most rental companies require drivers to report accidents within 24 hours of the incident; failure to notify the rental company may violate the rental agreement.
Rental Agreement
When renting a car, always read the rental agreement carefully before signing it, as it outlines the terms and conditions, including the insurance coverage and liability limits.
In Boston, MA, the law requires rental companies to provide minimum liability insurance coverage for their vehicles. However, it is essential to understand that the minimum coverage may not be adequate in the case of an accident.
Therefore, in some cases, additional coverage may be necessary, either through the rental company or your personal insurance policy.
Fault and Liability
In Boston, MA, the state follows a “modified comparative negligence” legal doctrine. This means that in accidents involving multiple parties, the court assigns fault and liability based on the degree of negligence of each driver.
Thus, even if you are driving a rental vehicle, you may be held liable for damages if the court determines that you were partly or wholly negligent. To protect your interests, it is critical to hire an experienced car accident lawyer in Boston who can help defend your case and minimize your liability.
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Even if you have auto insurance, the other driver(s) involved in the accident may not have enough insurance coverage to pay for the damages incurred. In these cases, underinsured motorist coverage may be necessary. This type of coverage protects drivers who either do not have insurance or do not have sufficient insurance to cover the damages.
Let’s say you are involved in an accident while driving a rental vehicle. In that case, it is crucial to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer in Boston, who can help you determine the necessary coverage.
Summing It Up
In conclusion, driving a rental vehicle in Boston, MA, can present legal challenges if involved in an accident. Knowing how to better navigate through the complexities of the situation is key and can be done by reporting the incident, reading the rental agreement, understanding fault and liability, having adequate insurance coverage, and seeking legal assistance.
Remember that you should always report any accident immediately, as this will protect your rights and interests during the proceedings. If you have been involved in an accident involving a rental vehicle while in Boston, it may be beneficial to have an experienced car accident lawyer from Michael Kelly Injury Lawyers on your side, helping you move forward with the best legal outcome possible. Reach out today to schedule your consultation and get the support you need for your case.
