What You Need to Know After a Binghamton Rental Car Injury

Getting into a car accident is bad enough. But when it happens in a rental car? That’s a whole different level of stress. Suddenly, you’re dealing with confusing contracts, sneaky insurance loopholes, and a rental company that’s more interested in protecting itself than helping you. 

The personal injury lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, know the ins and outs of rental car accidents, and we’re here to make sure you’re not the one left footing the bill. Let us handle the legal mess while you focus on getting back to normal. 

As a law firm in Binghamton that has been fighting for people’s rights for many years, we know how complicated rental car accidents can be. Whether you need an accident lawyer for a rental car crash or another type of claim, we’ve got your back.

Who’s Getting Blamed? The Hidden Battle Over Liability in a Binghamton Rental Car Crash

After a crash, everyone points fingers. The rental company, your insurance provider, even the other driver—it seems like nobody wants to take responsibility. So, who’s actually on the hook?

Factors That Determine Liability

Liability in a rental car accident isn’t black and white. Here’s what matters:

• Your Actions: If you caused the accident—maybe by speeding or running a red light—you could be held responsible. In New York, if damages exceed $50,000, the other party can take you to court.
• Vehicle Issues: If the car had mechanical problems, the rental company might be on the hook. Poor maintenance plays a role in crashes. Bald tires, faulty brakes, or engine failures can turn a routine drive into a nightmare.
• Another Driver’s Recklessness: Sometimes, it’s not you—it’s them. New York follows a comparative fault rule, meaning fault can be shared. If the other driver was 70% responsible and you were 30%, your compensation could be reduced accordingly.

New York’s no-fault insurance system means your own policy covers injuries regardless of fault. But when there’s serious damage or severe injuries, liability becomes a major issue.

When a Rental Company May Be Held Responsible

Rental companies aren’t off the hook just because they hand you the keys. They have legal responsibilities too. They might be liable if:

• They Neglected Maintenance: If the car wasn’t properly serviced and that led to your accident, they could be responsible. Think brake failures, worn-out tires, or transmission issues.
• They Rented Out a Defective Vehicle: In 2016, a law was passed preventing rental companies from renting out unrepaired recalled cars—but not all companies follow the rules. If they knowingly gave you a dangerous vehicle, they could be held accountable.

Of course, rental companies love stuffing their contracts with fine print to dodge responsibility. That’s why having legal support from an experienced personal injury law firm is so important.

Rental Car Insurance: Lifesaver or Useless When You Need It Most in Binghamton?

Rental car insurance sounds great—until you actually need it. Then, you might find out it doesn’t cover nearly as much as you thought.

Collision Damage Waiver vs. Liability Insurance

Rental companies push their Collision Damage Waiver, but here’s the catch—it’s not real insurance. It just means they won’t charge you for damages. Liability insurance, on the other hand, covers damage you cause to others. 

In New York, rental companies must provide at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in liability coverage. But if you cause a major accident, that might not be enough.

Coverage Gaps You Should Be Aware Of

Even if you get the rental company’s insurance, you could still be left paying out-of-pocket. Here’s why:

• Personal Belongings Aren’t Covered: If your laptop, phone, or luggage gets stolen from the car, rental insurance won’t help. You might need renters’ or homeowners’ insurance for that.
• Unauthorized Drivers Are a No-Go: If someone not listed on the rental agreement drives the car—even if they weren’t at fault—the rental company can deny coverage.
• Long-Term Rentals Might Not Be Covered: Many auto policies limit rental coverage to 30 days. If you’re renting for longer, you might need an extended policy.

Can You Actually Take Down a Rental Car Company in Binghamton? Here’s What It Takes

Rental car companies have deep pockets and even deeper legal teams. But that doesn’t mean they’re untouchable.

Manufacturer Defects vs. Maintenance Negligence

• If a manufacturer defect caused the crash, the automaker might be to blame. Think faulty airbags, engine malfunctions, or defective brakes.
• If poor maintenance led to the accident, the rental company could be held responsible. Over 50 million cars were recalled in the U.S. in 2022 alone. If they rented you a car with a known issue, they should pay the price—not you.

Crashed a Rental in Binghamton? Do This Immediately or Pay the Price

What you do right after the crash can make or break your case.

Filing a Report with the Rental Company

• Call the rental company ASAP. Most require immediate reporting, or they might void your coverage.
• Get everything in writing—emails, reports, receipts. Don’t trust verbal promises.
• Some companies demand a police report if the damage is over a certain amount, so make sure to check their policy.

Getting Medical Help and Documenting Injuries

• Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Some injuries—like whiplash—don’t show up right away.
• Keep a record of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses. This could be crucial for your claim. If you’re dealing with a serious injury, you may also need help with a slip and fall injury claim or workplace injury compensation to cover additional losses.

Credit Card Rental Insurance: Your Secret Weapon or a Total Scam?

Think your credit card has you covered? Maybe. Maybe not.

• Many credit cards only offer secondary coverage, meaning they only pay after your personal auto insurance kicks in.
• High-end cards like Chase Sapphire and Amex Platinum provide solid coverage—but only if you decline the rental company’s insurance.
• Exotic cars, motorcycles, and long-term rentals? Most credit card insurance won’t cover them.

Let Our Trusted Personal Injury Attorneys Protect your Rights

A rental car accident in Binghamton doesn’t have to wreck your finances—or your peace of mind. If you’re dealing with insurance headaches, sneaky rental agreements, or a company trying to shift the blame, we’ve got your back. 

Our legal team at Horn Wright, LLP, is ready to stand up for your rights and make sure you’re not left paying for someone else’s mistakes. Don’t go up against the rental giants alone—take them on with one of the best law firms in America by your side.

Call our office today at (585) 245-0255 to request your complimentary case evaluation.