ÖAMTC Tips in Case of a Rental Car Accident Abroad

"Such an event, especially on vacation, is of course particularly annoying. It is all the more important to know the necessary measures to be prepared for an emergency," says Nikolaus Authried, a lawyer from the ÖAMTC legal advice service on rental car accidents. "Furthermore, the chosen insurance option is crucial. Because with insufficient coverage, horrendous costs can sometimes arise."

In the event of an accident with a rental car, one should remain calm: put on a safety vest, secure the accident site, call emergency services in case of serious accidents, and provide first aid. Even with only minor damage, the car rental company and the police should be informed to avoid jeopardizing insurance coverage. In some countries and with certain rental companies, a police report may also be required for property damage. The ÖAMTC lawyer emphasizes the importance of photo documentation of the accident site and damages. If possible, the vehicle should be brought in for damage assessment. When returning the rental car, a signed damage report must be created by the rental company and a copy handed to the renter. Documents with unclear content or incorrect information should not be signed.

Mr. F., a club member, contacted the ÖAMTC legal advice service after an accident in Italy with a rental car. The question of fault was unclear, but there was only property damage. He requested quick advice on how to proceed. A legal advisor from the club gave the member immediate instructions: She recommended informing the car rental company and clarifying whether the police need to be involved, as this is often stated in the rental conditions. Additionally, the member should take photos of the accident site and damages. After returning to Austria, one should contact the club's legal advice service to review claims, which Mr. F. did after his vacation in Italy.

If you are innocently involved in an accident with a rental car, you don't have to worry too much: The liability insurance of the person responsible for the accident covers the costs for the damage to the rental car. The processing is handled by the car rental company. The ÖAMTC legal advisor advises against towing or repairing the car yourself. Even in the case of injuries to passengers, there is a claim against the opposing insurance. If you cause an accident yourself, the rental company's liability insurance covers all property damage to other vehicles, passengers, and infrastructure. However, repairs to the rental car itself are not covered. Only comprehensive insurance applies here. Such insurance, ideally without a deductible, is recommended when booking a rental car to avoid high costs in the event of damage, explains an ÖAMTC legal advisor.

For rental car questions, ÖAMTC members can contact the legal advisors of the legal advice service free of charge. In an emergency, such as after an accident or problems with the police abroad, the legal advisors are available around the clock at the emergency number (+43 (0)1 25 120 00). More information is available here . Legal protection insurance supports the enforcement of rights in the event of a dispute. In the ÖAMTC "My Journey" app, you can find all important information, including templates like the European accident report and translation aids, as well as tips on travel law and the option to request emergency assistance online. Further information on the topic of accidents abroad is provided in the ÖAMTC brochure "Everything for My Journey," which is available at all ÖAMTC service points.

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