What To Expect When You’re in an Accident With a Car You Don’t Own

3 minute read

By Rebecca Robertson

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but when it’s with a car you don’t own, things can get even more confusing. Understanding how insurance works in these situations can help reduce some of the anxiety. Here’s what to expect after an accident with a car you don’t own.

Who’s Responsible for the Damage?

If you’re in an accident with a car you don’t own, the first thing to determine is who will be responsible for the damage. In most cases, the insurance policy on the car, not the driver, is considered the primary coverage. 1 This means the car owner’s insurance will typically cover damages, whether you are at fault or not.

However, this doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. If the damages exceed the car owner’s insurance limits, your own insurance may be called upon to cover the remaining costs. It’s also important to note that if you’re at fault, the accident could still affect your driving record, even though it wasn’t your car.

What About Rental Cars?

Driving a rental car adds another layer of complexity. Rental car companies often offer insurance coverage when you rent the vehicle, but this can be expensive. If you choose not to take this coverage, your personal car insurance may extend to the rental. Some credit cards also offer rental car insurance if you used the card to pay for the rental.

In the event of an accident, the rental car company’s policy will usually be the primary coverage, and you may have to pay a deductible. It’s essential to review your rental agreement and know what kind of coverage you have before getting behind the wheel. Otherwise, you may face unexpected expenses if you’re involved in an accident with a car you don’t own.

Steps to Take After the Accident

If you find yourself in an accident while driving a car that isn’t yours, it’s important to follow these steps to protect yourself:

  1. Stay calm and check for injuries: The safety of everyone involved should be your first priority. Check for any injuries and call emergency services if needed.
  2. Exchange information: Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. You’ll also need to provide the car owner’s insurance details.
  3. Document the scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, damage to both vehicles, and any visible injuries. This can help with any future claims or legal disputes.
  4. Report the accident: Notify both your insurance company and the car owner’s insurance provider as soon as possible. If you’re in a rental, report the accident to the rental company as well. 2
  5. Cooperate with authorities: If law enforcement is called to the scene, provide them with the necessary information and answer their questions truthfully.

Stay Calm And Document Everything

Getting into an accident with a car you don’t own can be stressful, but knowing what to expect can make the situation more manageable. The car owner’s insurance will likely cover most damages, but your own insurance may come into play depending on the circumstances. Whether you’re driving a friend’s car or a rental, always make sure you understand the insurance coverage before you hit the road.

In case of an accident, stay calm, document everything, and notify the necessary parties. By following these steps, you can handle the situation responsibly and avoid further complications.

Contributor

A curious mind and a natural storyteller, Rebecca dives into topics from the newest EVs to off-roading vehicles, and everything in between. Her writing is approachable and filled with practical insights. In her spare time, she’s either at the beach or volunteering at her local animal shelter.