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What Happens If I’m in an Accident With a Rental Car During Thanksgiving Weekend?

Renting a car for Thanksgiving travel? Accident claims may be more complicated.

What Should I Do If I Get Into an Accident With a Rental Car?


Key Takeaway:
Rental car accidents can be more complicated than regular crashes, but your steps remain the same: protect your safety, document the scene, seek medical care, and gather the information you’ll need if you pursue a claim.


Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year in Texas. Many families rent cars to make long-distance travel easier — but when a crash involves a rental vehicle, questions about insurance coverage and responsibility can quickly make the situation overwhelming.

Whether you’re driving the rental or were hit by someone who rented a vehicle, knowing what to do immediately after the accident can protect both your health and your legal rights.

What To Do After an Accident With a Rental Car

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety comes first. Make sure everyone involved is okay and request emergency services. Even if injuries seem minor, reporting the crash is essential for documentation.

2. Notify the Police — and the Rental Company

A police report is critical for insurance and rental agreements.
If you were the one driving the rental car, call the rental company as soon as possible — most contracts require prompt reporting.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

Because multiple insurance policies may be involved, documentation is especially important. Collect:

  • Photos and videos of the scene and vehicle damage

  • The other driver’s contact and insurance information

  • Witness names, if available

  • The rental car’s plate number and contract details

If you see nearby security cameras, note their location in case footage is needed later.

4. Seek Medical Attention

Injuries from car accidents can show up hours or days later. Getting evaluated not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that supports your claim.

5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

Rental car accidents often involve the renter’s personal insurance, the rental company’s policy, the other driver’s insurer, and sometimes even credit card coverage. An attorney can help untangle these layers and ensure you aren’t blamed unfairly.

Rental Car Accident? Call Shaw.

Thanksgiving should be memorable in a good way. If you or a loved one was injured in a rental car accident due to someone else’s negligence, Carabin Shaw can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Emergency Treatment

  • Medical Bills

  • Lost Wages

  • Property Damage

  • Pain and Suffering

  • And More

Call 800-862-1260 today to schedule your free case evaluation with a San Antonio personal injury attorney.
No fees. No pressure. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.

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