What to Do in Case of Damage to a Rental Vehicle

What to Do in Case of Damage to a Rental Vehicle

Even though all precautions are taken during the car rental process, unexpected accidents or minor damages may still occur. In such situations, following the right steps instead of panicking helps prevent both financial losses and legal issues. Knowing the procedure to follow in case of damage to a rental car is crucial for completing the car rental experience smoothly. Express Car Rental emphasizes that its users act consciously and correctly in such situations.

Ensure Safety First

In the event of damage or an accident, the first step is to ensure personal safety. The vehicle should be moved to a safe location, hazard lights should be turned on, and warning triangles should be placed if necessary. If there are any injuries, emergency services should be contacted immediately.

Determine the Type of Damage

Damage to a rental car may range from a minor scratch to a major accident. The extent of the damage directly affects the procedure to be followed. The processes for accidents involving only material damage differ from those involving injuries. Therefore, the nature of the damage should be clearly assessed.

Prepare an Accident Report

If another vehicle is involved in the accident and the incident is limited to material damage, an accident report must be prepared. The report should be filled out completely and signed by both parties. This document is critical for the insurance process.

Document with Photos and Videos

In case of damage, it is very important to take photos of the vehicle from different angles. License plates, damaged areas, and the accident scene should be clearly captured. These records protect the user in case of potential disputes.

Inform the Car Rental Company Immediately

Any kind of damage to the rental car should be reported to the car rental company without delay. Company representatives will guide the user on the steps to follow. Late notifications may result in the damage falling outside the insurance coverage.

Check the Insurance Coverage

The amount to be paid in case of damage is determined according to the vehicle’s insurance and protection packages. Mandatory traffic insurance, comprehensive insurance, and additional damage coverage come into effect at this stage. Knowing these details before renting helps avoid surprises at the time of damage.

Do Not Take the Vehicle to an Unauthorized Service

When damage occurs, it is not appropriate to take the vehicle to any service center without the approval of the car rental company. The repair process should be directed by the company. Otherwise, the costs may be charged to the user.

Be Transparent During the Return Process

If damage has occurred to the rental car, it should be clearly reported during the return instead of being concealed. If damage is detected during the return inspection and was not reported in advance, the process may become more costly for the user.

Be Aware of Location-Based Damage Procedures

Damage procedures may vary depending on the city or location you are in. For example, minor accidents may occur more frequently in Istanbul due to heavy traffic. In such cases, knowing in advance how damage and insurance procedures work when using Antalya car rental services provides an advantage. Express Car Rental supports its users with standard procedures across different locations.

Take Precautions for Future Rentals

A rental experience involving damage serves as an important lesson for future rentals. Performing a detailed inspection when picking up the vehicle, choosing broader insurance coverage, and carefully reading the contract terms help prevent similar situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be done if there is a small scratch on a rental car?

Even minor damages should be reported to the car rental company. Failure to report may cause issues during the return process.

Who pays the costs if a rental car is involved in an accident?

The costs are determined according to the insurance and protection packages. In cases outside the insurance coverage, the amount may be charged to the user.

What happens if an accident report is not prepared?

Without an accident report, the insurance process may not proceed. This may result in the damage cost being charged to the user.

What happens if the damage to a rental car exceeds the insurance coverage?

Amounts exceeding insurance limits may be requested from the user according to the contract terms.

Does the rental period extend in case of damage?

Depending on the repair duration, the vehicle may be replaced or the rental period may be rescheduled.

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