Palm Beach Gardens, FL asked in Car Accidents, Consumer Law and Insurance Defense for Florida

Q: Received $1800 invoice for damage after rear-ending a rental car.

I was driving a rental car and rear-ended another driver who was also in a rental—specifically, a loaner from a dealership. The damage appeared minimal at the time, and we exchanged information. Recently, I received an invoice for $1800 from a body shop regarding the other driver's vehicle. I did not have any additional insurance from the rental company, and I'm not sure if my personal insurance covers rentals. The rental company inspected the other driver's car, not mine. I haven't contacted my insurance company yet. What are my options for addressing this invoice and understanding my rights or responsibilities?

1 Lawyer Answer

A: A Florida attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for a month. I'm sorry about your accident. I hope all involved are okay. A starting point could be to review the terms of your rental and what it covers in terms of property damage. Based on the facts the post, it isn't clear if the vehicle you struck has comprehensive and collision, but even if they do, they may want to treat it as a third-party claim and keep things off their policy, being that liability here appears to be on you. You could also check with your own insurance - that would depend on the options in your policy. Good luck

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