Rental car accident abroad: You have to know these rules!

Rental car accident abroad: You have to know these rules!

A traffic accident abroad can quickly become a stressful matter for travelers with a rental car. It is particularly important to know in the event of an accident that steps are to be taken. According to ÖAMTC , in such cases the vehicle liability insurance of the opponent assumes the costs of damage to the rental vehicle. The processing takes place through the car rental.

It is important that those affected do not tow or repair the damaged rental car themselves. If there are injuries to drivers or passengers, there is also a claim for the insurance of the opponent. In the event of a self-inflicted accident, on the other hand, the vehicle liability insurance of the rental car company covers property damage to other vehicles and people, but no repair costs on their own rental car.

insurance and their importance

Full-comprehensive insurance is necessary for the coverage of repair costs on the rental car. Landlords usually offer the choice between partial comprehensive and fully comprehensive insurance. While the partial coverage covers damage caused by third parties or external influences, the fully comprehensive accidents also include self -inflicted accidents. According to Deurag it can make sense to take out a full-compartment insurance without a deductible so as not to stay at the cost.

In addition, tenants should inform themselves about insurance cover before driving and carry the "green card" to the detection of the car insurance abroad. This insurance card applies in 46 countries and must be presented in an accident in order to be able to enforce the legal claims.

what to do after an accident?

In the event of an accident abroad, it is advisable to create a decent damage report and have it signed by both parties. The report should be submitted together with the rental agreement and the proof of the deposit, such as huk . If the vehicle is no longer in the way, many car rental companies provide a replacement vehicle for the remaining rental period.

Free legal advice is also available for members of the ÖAMTC to clarify possible ambiguities or problems. Legal emergency aid can be reached around the clock, especially after traffic accidents or problems with the police abroad. The contact point can be reached on the phone number (+43 (0) 1 25 120 00).

Overall, it is advisable to be well informed in advance and to take out all the necessary insurance in good time in order to be covered in the best possible way in the event of an accident.