What to Do After a Florida Rental Car Accident

Renting a car while visiting Florida can make your travel easier—but what happens if you’re in an accident while driving a rental car? Whether you’re a tourist or a local using a rental, knowing what to do after a crash is essential to protect your health, your finances, and your legal rights.
At Stein Law, we help individuals involved in rental car accidents in Florida navigate insurance issues, rental agreements, and potential personal injury claims. Here’s what to do immediately after an accident involving a rental vehicle.
1. Prioritize Safety and Get Medical Help
As with any car accident:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Move the vehicle to a safe location if possible.
- Alert law enforcement so they can document the scene with a police report.
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law requires you to seek medical treatment within 14 days to be eligible for insurance coverage.
2. Document the Accident Scene
Treat the accident like you would if it were your own car:
- Take photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and injuries.
- Gather contact and insurance information from the other driver.
- Ask for contact details from any witnesses.
- Request a copy of the police report when it becomes available.
This documentation will be crucial for your insurance claim and any legal action.
3. Contact the Rental Car Company
As soon as it’s safe to do so, notify the rental car company:
- Most rental contracts require you to report any accidents right away.
- Follow their instructions about returning or exchanging the vehicle.
- Ask whether their insurance or your credit card coverage applies to the damage.
Keep copies of any forms or communication you receive from the rental company.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
If you have your own auto insurance, contact your provider to report the accident. Depending on your policy, your liability and collision coverage may extend to rental cars.
If you’re using a credit card’s rental coverage, be sure to follow their reporting process and provide any necessary documentation.
5. Understand Liability in Florida Rental Car Accidents
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, meaning each driver’s insurance typically covers their own medical expenses (through PIP) regardless of who caused the crash.
However, if the accident involves serious injuries or permanent damage, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party to recover additional compensation.
Here’s how liability may break down:
- You’re at fault: You may be responsible for damages to the rental car and the other driver’s vehicle.
- The other driver is at fault: You can seek damages through their Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage and may be able to pursue a personal injury claim.
- Another party is partially at fault (e.g., poor road design or defective parts): You may have a claim against a third party.
6. Speak to a Florida Car Accident Attorney
Rental car accidents often involve multiple insurance providers, third-party liability issues, and complex rental agreements. An experienced car accident attorney can help you:
- Determine fault
- Understand your rental contract and insurance coverage
- Negotiate with insurers
- File a personal injury claim if needed
- Recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage
Why Choose Stein Law After a Rental Car Accident?
At Stein Law, we represent tourists and residents alike who’ve been injured in rental car accidents throughout Florida. We offer:
- Clear legal guidance for out-of-state drivers
- Experience handling claims involving rental companies, insurers, and at-fault drivers
- Aggressive pursuit of the maximum compensation you’re entitled to
We work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Injured in a Florida Rental Car Accident? Call Stein Law Today
If you were hurt in a rental car accident in Florida, let us protect your rights and handle the legal and insurance issues while you focus on recovery.
Contact Stein Law or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Florida car accident attorney.