AboutKristen Mulcahy, CIC Expertise My specialty is commercial insurance for business owners. I can answer questions regarding
liability, property, auto, workers compensation, directors and officers, umbrellas and
risk management for all types of businesses. Risk management or loss control, is taking
measures to reduce the chances of a loss in the first place or, helping you prevent it
from happening again. Insurance can be complicated and confusing and there are no stupid
questions! I own a Risk Management company in New England that provides insurance consultations
to business owners and sight inspections for insurance companies.
Question Sorry to be asking so many questions,but being involved in an accident is so frustrating and confusing. I now have a rental car that is being paid for by the insurance company of the man who damaged my vehicle. I don't understand what or rather how any scratches,dents,or other blemishes to this vehicle are determined when returning this vehicle to the rental car company. I am almost afraid to drive it. How are any damages determined? Somehow I think that I should just walk.
Answer I truly don't mind the questions. Being in an accident is something that puts you in a position that hopefully, you haven't been in much in your life! When you rented the vehicle, the rental car company, most likely Enterprise, should have walked around the car and noted any pre-existing damage. In fact, there should be a diagram of the car on your rental agreement and it should be noted there and they most likely asked you to initial near this area to confirm what was written. When you return the vehicle, they will again walk around the car to determine if there are any new scratches or marks. If you've only had it for a few hours, take a walk around it yourself, make any notes, and if you don't see it noted on the contract, call the rental car company and tell them that you want it documented so that you are not charged when you return the vehicle. If feasible, you can always take out the insurance that the rental car company offers, I think it's $12/day or so, and if anything at all happens to that car, you're not responsible. I know you don't want any out of pocket expenses but if it's not going to take long to fix your car, it may be worth it. Lastly, I'm sure they asked you for a credit card incase there is any damage. Check with your credit card issuer and see if there is any rental car coverage and if so, what is it.
Patricia, keep the questions coming if you need more help. I truly don't mind! Good luck!
