What Happens If You Get Into an Accident in a Rental Car in Las Vegas?

Renting a car in Las Vegas is a popular choice for tourists and business travelers looking to explore the city and surrounding areas. However, what should be an easy transportation solution can quickly turn into a nightmare if an accident occurs. Car crashes involving rental vehicles introduce unique legal, financial, and insurance complexities that many drivers are unprepared for.

Who pays for the damages? Does rental car insurance cover injuries? Will the rental company charge extra fees? Knowing how to handle an accident involving a rental car in Las Vegas prevents unnecessary costs and legal disputes.

Prioritize Safety and Report the Accident Immediately

The first and most important step after a crash is ensuring everyone’s safety. Whether driving your own car or a rental, following basic accident protocols helps prevent further injuries and complications.

Check for Injuries – Assess yourself and passengers for injuries. If someone is hurt, call 911 immediately and wait for medical assistance.
Move to a Safe Location – If the vehicle is drivable, move it to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Call the Police – Even for minor accidents, filing a police report is crucial. Rental companies and insurance providers require an official report to process claims.
Gather Evidence – Take photos and videos of the scene, damage, license plates, road conditions, and traffic signals. Collect contact details from witnesses and other involved drivers.

Failing to report the accident may result in legal consequences or denied insurance claims. Skipping this step gives rental companies the opportunity to hold drivers fully responsible for damages.

Contact the Rental Car Company Without Delay

Rental car contracts require immediate notification in the event of an accident. Contacting the company as soon as possible prevents contract violations and ensures proper handling of the situation.

What to Expect When Calling the Rental Company:

Reporting the Accident – Provide basic details, including location, time, and severity of damage.
Instructions on Repairs – The company may require the vehicle to be taken to specific repair facilities.
Towing Assistance – If the car is undrivable, the company arranges towing services.
Insurance Guidance – The company advises on the claims process and whether rental insurance applies.

Not reporting the accident in a timely manner could result in additional fees or refusal to cover damages, leading to out-of-pocket expenses for the renter.

Understanding Who Pays for Damages

Determining who is financially responsible after a rental car accident depends on various factors, including insurance coverage and liability. Several policies may apply:

1. Rental Car Insurance (Purchased from the Rental Company)

Many renters purchase insurance at the counter when picking up the vehicle. Depending on the plan, it may cover:

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental car but does not cover liability or medical expenses.

Liability Insurance: Covers injuries and damages to other parties in an at-fault accident.

Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for the renter and passengers.

2. Personal Auto Insurance (If You Own a Car at Home)

Some personal car insurance policies extend coverage to rental vehicles. However, reviewing policy exclusions and deductibles prevents surprises. If using personal auto insurance, expect to pay a deductible before coverage kicks in.

3. Credit Card Rental Insurance

Certain credit cards offer rental car insurance if used to pay for the rental. Coverage varies by provider and typically includes damage to the rental vehicle but excludes liability and injuries. Reviewing credit card terms before renting prevents misunderstandings.

4. At-Fault Driver’s Insurance

If another driver caused the accident, their insurance should cover damages. However, if they are uninsured or underinsured, additional coverage may be necessary to recover costs.

Watch Out for Extra Fees from the Rental Company

Even if insurance covers the accident, rental companies often charge additional fees that renters are unaware of. These may include:

Loss of Use Fees – Charges for the time the vehicle is out of service for repairs.

Administrative Fees – Extra charges for processing claims and paperwork.

Diminished Value Fees – Some rental companies claim that a repaired vehicle loses value and charge the renter for this loss.

Disputing these fees requires thorough documentation, including photos, accident reports, and proof of insurance coverage.

What If the Other Driver Has No Insurance?

Las Vegas sees many uninsured and underinsured drivers, making rental car accidents even more complicated. If the at-fault driver lacks proper coverage, options include:

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UMC) – Some personal auto policies and rental insurance plans include protection against uninsured drivers.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – Covers medical expenses regardless of who was at fault.
Legal Action – Suing the at-fault driver may help recover losses, but their ability to pay affects the outcome.

Without proper coverage, renters risk paying for damages out of pocket, making additional rental insurance a smart investment when traveling.

Seek Medical Attention Even for Minor Injuries

Not all injuries appear immediately after a crash. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries may develop hours or even days later. Seeking medical attention right away prevents untreated conditions from worsening.

Common Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident:

Neck pain, stiffness, or headaches (possible whiplash)
Dizziness, nausea, or confusion (potential concussion)
Back pain or tingling sensations (nerve damage or spinal injuries)

Insurance companies often argue that delayed treatment weakens injury claims, making early medical evaluation essential for compensation.

When to Hire a Lawyer After a Rental Car Accident

Rental car accidents often result in complicated insurance disputes, unexpected fees, and confusion over liability. Victims may face challenges such as denied claims, disagreements about who is responsible for damages, and excessive charges from rental companies. In cases involving serious injuries, securing fair compensation can be particularly difficult without legal support.

When faced with these issues, hiring legal representation is crucial. The #1 rated car accident lawyer in Las Vegas at The Janda Law Firm Accident & Injury Lawyer provides expert guidance to protect victims’ rights. An experienced attorney can negotiate with insurance providers, challenge unfair rental company fees, and ensure injured parties receive the compensation they deserve.

Handling a Rental Car Accident Like a Pro

A rental car accident in Las Vegas can be both stressful and expensive, but taking the right steps can help minimize costs and legal complications. First, prioritize safety by checking for injuries and reporting the accident immediately. Notify the rental company and follow their specific procedures to avoid contract violations. Reviewing insurance policies—whether personal, rental, or credit card coverage—can clarify financial responsibility and prevent unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Additionally, stay vigilant against excessive fees or unfair charges imposed by the rental company, and dispute any unjust claims. Seeking medical attention is crucial, even for minor injuries, as symptoms may appear later. If liability disputes or insurance denials arise, consulting a lawyer can protect your rights and financial interests. Whether in Las Vegas for business or leisure, being prepared for unexpected accidents helps safeguard both your well-being and your wallet.

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Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com