Getting into an accident with a rental car can be an awful experience. Since it occurs so rarely, few people know what they should do when it happens to them. Here are some tips to help you follow the right procedures for handing damage claims on your Lihue rental cars.
Call the Rental Agency
Once you have been involved in an accident, it’s important to let the rental agency know. First, call the police and emergency services so they can come to the scene of the accident, take a report and provide any medical care if it is needed. But the rental agency will need to know about the accident as soon as possible, too. The agency usually gives customers an 800 number to call in case of an emergency like this, but you can also call your local agency to tell them about the accident and find out what you should do next.
Take Pictures
Whether you have been in an accident or not, it’s important to take pictures of the vehicle before you drive it away and when you return it. There may be times when the rental agency representative misses a scratch or a ding in the car before you drive it away and you will be responsible for those dings and scratches if you return the vehicle without proof that you didn’t cause those issues. If you have before and after pictures of the vehicle, it’s simply a good way to protect yourself.
Do an Inspection When You Return
There are times when you return a rental car and the representatives at the agency don’t do an inspection for any damage. You might think you’re clear in this instance, but you could end up getting a letter a couple weeks later about damage you caused to the vehicle. Don’t let this happen. When you return a vehicle, make sure you inspect it with a rental agency representative. Once they sign off on it, you don’t have to be concerned about getting charged for damages several days or weeks later.
Get Documentation
If one of the Lihue rental cars was in your possession when damage was done to it, simply own up to it and work out something with the rental agency for reimbursement. However, remember to get documentation for the damages so you know what you are paying for. If you have insurance, contact your agency representative to report the claim and take responsibility.
Hawaii Car Rentals offers the lowest discount rates on Lihue rental cars through many national brand agencies. You will get great rates and a nice variety of vehicle choices.