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I did not take the rental car company's insurance and got in an accident, now I am being sued what can I do

Asked over 3 years ago - New York, NY

hello, I was in an accident with a rental car. I had previously called my credit card company and they told me I had full coverage through the card on rental cars so I did not take the rental company's insurance. After the accident, I found out I am being sued for injuries to the other driver and that my credit card only covers the car I was driving. I own a home and have some money in the bank, assets, etc. Will I lose everything if they win this case? thank you for your time.

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Attorney answers (4)

Lars A. Lundeen

Reputation Level 20

Answered almost 3 years ago. Personal Injury Lawyer in Rutland, VT.

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If you have a personal car which was insured at the time of the accident with your rental car, your accident using the rental car may well be covered under your personal auto liability policy as a temporary replacement vehicle. You should consult an attorney in the state where you live to have him or her review your policy.

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John Alexander Willis

Reputation Level 9

Answered over 3 years ago. Car / Auto Accident Lawyer in Boca Raton, FL.

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Frequently, but not always, your own car insurance will cover you for any liability incurred while driving a rental car. I would recommend you promptly contact your personal auto insurance company. They will be able to lead you in the right direction.

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Scot Dale Goldberg

Reputation Level 9

Answered almost 3 years ago. Car / Auto Accident Lawyer in Fort Myers, FL.

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Please note that I am only licensed in State of Florida and this is for general information purposes only. The first thing I would do is contact my own car insurance company and let the know what happened. Normaly you should have coverage there for any actions in other vehicle that you are in. You can also check with your agent that sold you your policy for your own personal car.

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Donald F. Maierson

Reputation Level 6

Answered almost 3 years ago. Environmental / Natural Resources Lawyer in Houston, TX.

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You should do two things as soon as possible. First contact you own insurance company that has the liability insurance on your personal car to report the accident and send them a copy certified mail of the lawsuit if you have already been served with papers. Your insurance company will then have to advise you in writing if the claims made by the other driver are covered under your own policy. Second you should contact an attorney in your community that can answer the specific questions about money in the bank and other assets since each state has different laws regarding what can happen to your assets in the event of a judgment against you.

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