At Levine Law, our team of top-rated rental car accident lawyers in Denver is here to guide you through the process. We have extensive experience handling rental car accident cases, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Rental Car Accidents in Denver
Accidents involving rental cars can introduce additional challenges compared to standard vehicle collisions. When you’re in a rental car accident, multiple parties may be involved, including the rental company, insurance providers, and the other driver. This can make it harder to determine who is responsible and how compensation is handled.
Common Causes of Rental Car Accidents
Rental car accidents occur for many reasons, including:
- Driver unfamiliarity with the vehicle: Since rental cars often differ from what drivers typically use, unfamiliarity can contribute to mishaps.
- Tourists in unfamiliar areas: Denver is a popular destination, and drivers unfamiliar with the roads or traffic patterns are likelier to make errors.
- Vehicle defects: While rental car companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, negligence in upkeep could lead to accidents caused by mechanical failures.
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving can be especially prevalent when people are in an unfamiliar setting, relying on GPS systems, or dealing with rental procedures.
- Weather conditions: Denver’s unpredictable weather, especially during winter, can lead to dangerous driving conditions.
What to Do After a Rental Car Accident in Denver
If you’ve been involved in a rental car accident, knowing the proper steps to take is crucial to protect your legal rights and ensure your safety:
- Check for injuries: Your health and safety are paramount. Seek medical attention immediately if you or anyone involved is injured.
- Call the police: Always report the accident, no matter how minor it may seem. This creates an official record, which can be critical in your claim.
- Exchange information: Collect the name, contact information, and insurance details from the other driver(s). You must also provide details about your rental agreement if you’re the rental car driver.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, any damage, the surrounding area, and weather conditions at the time of the accident.
- Notify your rental car company: Inform the rental company about the accident as soon as possible. Most rental agreements require immediate reporting.
- Contact a rental car accident lawyer in Denver: At Levine Law, we can help you sort through the legal and insurance complexities that follow a rental car accident. As your trusted Denver injury lawyer, we will fight for your rights.
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Colorado Laws and Statutes Affecting Rental Car Accidents
Understanding the local laws can be vital to a rental car accident claim in Denver. Colorado operates under a “fault” system, meaning that the person responsible for the accident is financially liable for damages. As a top-rated car accident attorney in Denver, we’ll ensure your case is handled effectively under these laws.
Statute of Limitations
Under Colorado law, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Failing to do so within this timeframe could prevent you from receiving compensation. It’s important to act quickly and consult with an auto accident attorney in Denver, Colorado, as soon as possible.
Comparative Negligence
Colorado follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that if you’re partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. However, if you’re found to be more than 50% responsible, you may not be able to recover damages at all. Our team will work to ensure that liability is correctly apportioned and that your rights are protected.
Liability in Rental Car Accidents
One of the primary concerns in a rental car accident case is determining who is responsible for the damages.
Several factors can affect liability in these cases:
- The driver’s personal insurance: In most cases, the driver’s own car insurance will cover the damages from a rental car accident. However, this can depend on the specific terms of the insurance policy.
- Rental car insurance: If the driver opted for rental car insurance at the time of the rental, this coverage might come into play. It’s essential to understand your coverage type—such as collision damage waivers, liability coverage, or personal accident insurance.
- Third-party negligence: If another driver’s actions caused the accident, their insurance may be responsible for the damages.
- Rental company liability: In certain cases, the rental company may bear some responsibility, especially if the accident was due to mechanical failure or lack of proper maintenance.
Colorado law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. This includes coverage for bodily injury and property damage. If you are injured in a rental car accident, you can pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Denver Rental Car Insurance Requirements
Colorado law requires all drivers, including those in rental cars, to maintain liability insurance coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $15,000 for property damage
If the at-fault driver in the accident doesn’t have sufficient coverage or you’ve opted for additional insurance from the rental company, this will affect your claim. Understanding these details can be complicated, so having an experienced Denver rental car accident lawyer by your side is crucial.
Why Choose Levine Law?
Our team at Levine Law has built a reputation as a leading firm in Denver, known for our commitment to personal injury cases. We take pride in being a trusted auto accident attorney in Denver, Colorado, providing personalized attention to every case.
Whether you’re dealing with rental car companies, insurance adjusters, or the court system, we stand by your side to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Extensive Experience: With years of experience handling rental car accident cases, we understand their unique challenges.
- Client-Centered Approach: We believe in treating every client like family and ensuring they are informed and empowered throughout the process.
- Results-Oriented: Our team is focused on delivering results. We’ve recovered millions for accident victims and their families, ensuring justice is served.
- Local Knowledge: As a car wreck lawyer near me, we know Denver’s courts, insurance companies, and regulations, giving us an edge in handling your case.
How We Can Help
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Determine all liable parties, including rental companies or third parties
- Pursue maximum compensation for your injuries and damages
We understand how overwhelming rental car accident cases can be. That’s why we’re committed to providing you with top-tier legal representation and fighting for the justice you deserve.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured in a rental car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Levine Law, your Denver injury lawyer, for a free consultation. Our team will review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the claims process.
With our experience, dedication, and commitment to achieving the best results, you can feel confident in our ability to handle your case. Contact a rental car accident lawyer in Denver today, and let us start working for you.
