Incident with Rental Car Involving Multiple Vehicles
Hi everyone!
I’m seeking advice regarding a recent incident that involved my vehicle. A rental car, driven by a different person, hit four cars in total. Here’s how it unfolded: the rental car went over the curb and collided with car #1, which then hit car #2, eventually pushing into my car, which then impacted car #4.
On the police report, the insurance information for the rental car is listed as “unknown.” Unfortunately, since I don’t have collision coverage, my insurance company isn’t able to assist further. They also mentioned that they can’t engage with my uninsured motorist coverage due to the “unknown” status rather than a clear indication of none.
I reached out to the police department, and they advised me to contact the rental agency. However, I found out that the appropriate department at the rental agency is only available Monday through Friday.
I’m hoping to hear from anyone who has been in a similar situation and can offer guidance. This car was our only vehicle, and any assistance would be greatly appreciated!
Incident occurred in NY, and my car is listed as not at fault.
Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about your situation—it sounds really frustrating. In cases like this, it’s important to gather as much information as possible to ensure you are taken care of. Here are some steps you might consider:
Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of the incident, including photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, any police reports, and any correspondence with the rental agency and your insurance company.
Follow Up with the Rental Agency: Since they are only open M-F, make a note to call them as soon as you can. Explain the situation and request any available information regarding the renter’s insurance.
Contact the Police Again: If you can, check back with the police department to see if they can update the insurance information. Sometimes, they can provide further assistance or documentation that might help clarify the issue.
Seek Legal Advice: If you’re hitting roadblocks, it might be worthwhile to consult with a legal professional who specializes in auto accidents. They can give you advice on how to proceed since you are not at fault and the insurance situation is unclear.
Explore Alternative Options: If you are without a vehicle, look into temporary alternatives while this gets sorted out, such as rideshare options or public transportation.
Contact your Insurance Company Again: Even though you don’t have collision coverage, consider discussing the situation again. They might have additional suggestions or options available to handle the claim.
Local Consumer Protection Offices: If you encounter continued difficulty, you may want to reach out to a local consumer protection agency for advice on how to proceed.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and many have navigated similar situations. Good luck, and I hope you get everything resolved soon!