Rental Car Accidents and TPD Claims – How Do They Work?

Australia – the land of creepy crawlies, kangaroos, and… car rentals?

Car rental is a big business, especially now with people choosing to travel within Australia and explore our own backyard. Because of this, you’ll most likely find them everywhere on the road. However, with this, also comes the negative aspect of accidents in rental cars becoming a regular occurrence.

Unfortunately, they’re very common, and so is the confusion that surrounds the subject. Who’s at fault? Who’s going to pay for the damage? What steps must you take after? What are you covered for?

In this article, we’re going to fill you in on the knowledge that you need in order to handle a rental car accident, and TPD claim (should the situation ever occur) with confidence.

 

What Do I Do If I’m In a Rental Car Accident?
First things first, your priority should be to get everybody out of the rental car and to safety as quickly as you can. However, if anyone is hurt or in a lot of pain, you should not move them and call emergency services.

• If everybody is now safe, and the emergency services are on the way, the next thing you need to do is exchange information with the other person or people affected. Remember, this applies even if you have crashed into property and parked cars.
• Important information to gather are: names, addresses, telephone numbers, driver license details and car registration details. Also, take photos of the scene as soon as you can to use for evidence for a claim if need be.
• Your final call of action is one to the rental company. You’ll be able to find their number on your agreement. All that’s left to do is explain what happened, and let them handle the rental car recovery, repairs, and replacement if necessary. They will also deal with any other parties involved.

What Am I Covered For?
You’ll find that rental cars, in most cases, come with a basic package of Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, and Third-Party Liability cover. Let’s see how each one works –

Collision Damage Waiver

This means that if your rental car’s bodywork was to get damaged whilst it’s in your possession, then your Collision Damage Waiver should cover it. However, it won’t cover other loss or damage. This is often referred to as excess.

Third Party Liability

If you were to damage somebody else’s property, a parked car, or knock down somebody’s front garden fence, then you’ll be covered for it through this insurance policy. You can purchase this when booking, or at the counter before they hand you the keys.

Theft Protection

This type of cover does exactly what it says – protects you against the theft of a rental car by covering the cost of a new car. Again, bear in mind that you may need to pay an excess for this.

Injured in a Rental Car? You may have a claim for compensation

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being hurt in a rental car, you might be entitled to compensation, including making a claim through your superannuation. As time limits apply, it’s best to seek advice as soon as possible.

Here at Claimify, we know that legal claims can be very complex, convoluted, and expensive. We’ve witnessed their impact on Australian families first hand, as claimants struggle to hunt down the right documents, talk to the right people and juggle the constant call-back-carousel of insurance companies.

We also know just how distressing a rental car (or any) car accident can be. And while we can’t undo the feelings you’re experiencing, we can deliver an uncomplicated, transparent, and super-fast process when it comes to making your claim.

If you’re looking for the outcome you deserve, without having to speak to a single insurance representative, contact us today!