Picture this: you’re cruising down the open road, enjoying your long-term rental car adventure when suddenly, screeching tyres and a heart-stopping collision shatter the tranquillity. As accidents can happen when we least expect them, such emergencies can definitely turn a dream trip into a nightmare! But with the right knowledge and steps, you can navigate through the aftermath of chaos and come out on top.
From ensuring everyone’s safety to gathering vital information and handling insurance claims, here’s a step-by-step guideline you can follow along!
1. Check to see if everyone is fine/safe
Safety should always be the foremost concern when you find yourself in a rental car accident. The very first and vital step is to prioritise the well-being of everyone involved, be it yourself, passengers, or pedestrians. Take a moment to check for any injuries and, if necessary, promptly seek medical assistance.
2. Call relevant authorities if needed
In case of injuries or substantial vehicle damage, it’s crucial to reach out to the appropriate authorities, including the police or ambulance services. These dedicated professionals will meticulously document the accident, evaluate the scene, and ensure that any required medical assistance is promptly provided. Be sure to cooperate fully, offering precise details about the incident.
3. Gather evidence
To protect yourself and pave the way for a seamless insurance claim process for your long-term car leasing plan, gather as much evidence as possible. Capture the accident scene in detail through photographs, documenting the vehicles involved, visible damages, and the surrounding environment. This visual documentation holds immense value, as it not only aids in establishing liability but also serves as a compelling support for your case. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, and in this case, it can be worth the peace of mind you seek.
4. Take down all information
When it comes to exchanging information with the other parties involved in the accident, it’s important to gather all the necessary details. Be sure to politely request their names, contact information, driver’s licence numbers, licence plate numbers, and insurance information. Don’t forget to jot down the names and badge numbers of any helpful police officers who respond to the scene. This valuable information will play a pivotal role when it comes to filing insurance claims or seeking legal assistance, should the need arise. Being thorough now can save you from headaches later on.
5. Check if the car can still be driven
Assess the drivability of the rental car post-accident. If it’s safe to continue driving, gracefully guide it to a secure location away from traffic, minimising any potential risks. But if the car is incapacitated, promptly notify both the authorities and your rental car company. Their expertise will be able to guide you moving forward, ensuring you’re well-informed on the necessary next steps to take.
6. Contact your car rental company
Once you’ve secured the safety of everyone involved and collected all the essential information, reach out to your car leasing company without delay. Take a deep breath and give us a call, sharing the details of the accident and seeking guidance on the specific procedures for handling such incidents. Our experienced team will provide you with instructions on the necessary steps to take, including any paperwork or reporting obligations.
7. Keep a record of all expenses incurred after the accident
After the dust settles, maintain a meticulous record of every expense that arises from the accident. Be it towing fees, repair costs, medical bills, or any other expenses related to the incident, document them all. These records hold tremendous significance when it comes to filing an insurance claim or seeking reimbursement. Preserving every receipt and invoice is vital for precise documentation, ensuring you have a solid foundation for your case.
In the unfortunate event of a rental car accident, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference. Looking ahead to your next trip, consider renting a car in Singapore from Hertz for a hassle-free experience. With Hertz, you enjoy the peace of mind of unlimited third-party liability and property damage coverage of up to S$5 million per incident. Additionally, our rates include Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), though you remain responsible for the “Non-Waiverable Damage Excess (NWDE)” amount. To further reduce the excess, you have the option to choose Protector Saver, which reduces it by 50%, or Super Protection Saver, which eliminates it entirely.
With Hertz Singapore, you can embark on your journey knowing that your rental car experience is backed by comprehensive coverage options and flexible choices to suit your needs. Contact us today to know more!