Vehicle accidents can lead to significant injuries and property damage, and individuals deserve compensation if the accident was caused by the actions of another driver. But what happens if you get involved in an accident with a leased vehicle? Does this change the dynamics of the incident and compensation recovery process in any way?
Leased Vehicles and Insurance Coverage
Every driver in the state of Georgia is required to carry a certain amount of insurance in order to remain legal on the roadway. Currently, the types and minimums required by Georgia law include the following:
- Bodily injury liability of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Property damage liability of $25,000 per accident
However, when an individual leases a vehicle, the lender or dealership is going to require additional types of insurance. This will include collision coverage that helps pay for property damage expenses in an accident with another vehicle or object, as well as comprehensive coverage that helps protect the vehicle from unexpected damage, such as flooding or a tree branch falling.
Additionally, for brand-new leased vehicles, GAP insurance may be required that will help cover expenses if the total amount of damage that the insurance carrier will cover is less than what the person owes on the vehicle still. GAP insurance covers this difference.
In the event you are involved in an accident with a leased vehicle, whether or not you were driving the leased vehicle or somebody else is, the incident should move forward just like any other vehicle accident. The vehicle should have proper insurance, and the police can come to the scene and fill out the accident report.
Steps to Take After a Leased Vehicle Accident
If you or somebody you care about has been injured or sustained property damage in an accident involving a leased vehicle, you may need to work with an attorney to recover compensation. However, there are various steps that you can take right after the incident occurs to help ensure that you recover compensation for your losses:
- Make sure the police come to the scene to fill out the police report and gather the insurance information of all parties involved.
- Gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. This could include using a phone to take photographs or video of the entire area, including vehicle damage, injuries, debris and skid marks, etc. If there were any eyewitnesses, their names and contact information should be written down.
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Any person involved in a vehicle accident needs to be evaluated by a doctor, even if there is not much pain right after the incident.
- Reach out to an attorney for a free case evaluation. A skilled car accident lawyer in Georgia will be able to assist with determining the best steps moving forward for your particular situation.
- Be very careful when speaking to the insurance carriers. Insurance claims adjusters are not your friends, and they are looking to limit how much money they pay out in a settlement. Ask your attorney how to handle any calls with the insurance carrier.