What to Do After a Rental Car Accident in New Orleans
Visiting New Orleans should be about enjoying jazz, beignets, and Bourbon Street—not navigating the chaos of a rental car accident. But accidents happen, and if you find yourself in a crash while driving a rental car in New Orleans, it’s crucial to know your rights and the next steps to protect yourself legally and financially.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call Authorities
The first thing you should do—regardless of whether you’re in your own car or a rental—is ensure that everyone is safe. Call 911 immediately to report the accident. A police report will be essential for both your rental company and any potential insurance or injury claims.
Step 2: Document the Scene
Take detailed photos of all vehicles involved, road conditions, visible injuries, and surrounding traffic signs or signals. Exchange contact and insurance information with all drivers involved. Also, write down the names and badge numbers of responding officers, as well as the accident report number.
Step 3: Notify the Rental Car Company
You’ll need to alert the rental car company as soon as possible. They may have specific procedures you’ll need to follow—such as filling out an incident report or taking the car to an authorized repair center. If you purchased rental insurance through the company, that coverage may kick in now.
Step 4: Determine What Insurance Applies
Figuring out which insurance policies apply to your rental car crash can be tricky, especially if multiple coverages exist. Here are a few possibilities:
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Your personal auto insurance (if it includes rental coverage)
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Credit card rental protection, if you used a qualifying card to book the rental
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Rental car company’s collision damage waiver (CDW) or supplemental insurance
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The other driver’s liability insurance, if they were at fault
A New Orleans car accident lawyer can help sort out the coverage puzzle and ensure you don’t get stuck with unexpected costs.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries—like whiplash or concussions—may take hours or even days to show symptoms. Medical documentation is also critical if you later need to pursue an injury claim.
Step 6: Contact a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer
Accidents involving rental cars can be more complex than regular vehicle crashes. Liability may be disputed, insurance companies may point fingers, and the rental agency may push charges onto you—even if you weren’t at fault.
At The Chopin Law Firm, our New Orleans car accident lawyers are experienced in handling rental car collisions and know how to advocate for tourists and residents alike. From sorting out liability to negotiating with insurance companies, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Common Questions After a Rental Car Accident in New Orleans:
Do I Have to Pay for the Rental Car Damages?
That depends on your insurance coverage and who was at fault. A lawyer can help you determine liability and work to recover your expenses.
What Happens if I Declined the Rental Company’s Insurance?
You may still be covered through your personal auto insurance or credit card protection. We can help review your options.
Can I Still File a Claim if I’m from Out of State?
Absolutely. Our firm frequently helps out-of-state visitors injured while driving rental cars in Louisiana.
Don’t Navigate the Aftermath Alone
If you’ve been involved in a rental car accident in New Orleans, don’t leave your recovery to chance. Contact The Chopin Law Firm at (504) 323-6439 or reach out online for a free consultation. Our team is here to help you untangle the legal process and get back to enjoying life—whether you’re just visiting or call Louisiana home.
