Driving a rental car may already be placing you in an unfamiliar driving situation. Add to that the fact that you may be driving in locations that are new to you. That doesn't mean, though, that an accident in a rental car is necessarily your fault. This type of accident can be complex for many to cope with, so read on to find out more.

When Injuries Are Involved

Some fender-bender injuries are annoying, but they pale in comparison to being injured while driving a rental car. Two main issues should be examined:

• Was the accident your fault?
• Did the accident happen because of the rental vehicle itself?

If the accident was your fault, your own insurance will have to pay for any losses unless you purchased optional rental car insurance. If you were hit because of another driver, you may be eligible to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more from the other driver's insurer.

If the accident occurred because of an issue with the rental car, you should speak to an auto accident attorney because you may need to take action against the agency for providing you with an unsafe vehicle. For example, if the brakes failed, the airbag failed to expand, or a tire came off causing you to wreck, the rental car company is responsible for your damages.

What To Do Right Away

1. Phone law enforcement by calling 911 to report the accident. Your rental car company probably requires a report to be filed. Ask for emergency medical services when you call. If you are injured badly enough to go to the hospital, get checked out at the emergency room, or call your doctor immediately.
2. If you can, take photos of the damage to the vehicles (all vehicles). If someone saw the accident, obtain their contact information as well. Get the insurance information of the other driver.
3. Call the rental car company and inform them of the accident. They will arrange to have the vehicle towed or picked up from the towing facility and at the same, arrange to provide you with another vehicle if you are able to drive and want to continue your trip.
4. Let your own insurance company know about the accident.
5. Don't speak to the other driver or their insurer about the accident. Never admit fault in an accident –leave that up to the investigators.

Talk to a car accident injury lawyer if you were injured and the vehicle was faulty, or the other driver caused the accident.