What Happens if You Get in an Accident with Turo in California?
Turo is like an Airbnb for cars. It’s a convenient and affordable way for travelers to rent cars from local owners. However, what happens if you are injured in a Turo crash? If you were hurt in a Turo accident, several factors will determine your next steps and the potential compensation you might receive.
Consulting with a personal injury attorney experienced with Turo-related accidents can help you effectively manage your claim and work toward securing the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Read on to learn what happens if you get in an accident with Turo and how Turo’s insurance works.
How Turo Works
Turo operates as a peer-to-peer car-sharing service, allowing private vehicle owners to rent out their cars to others. The process starts with car owners listing their vehicles on Turo’s platform and setting their own prices and availability. Renters can then browse these listings, choose a car that suits their needs, and book it for the desired period.
Once a booking is confirmed, renters and owners arrange for the pickup and return of the vehicle. Turo provides a range of insurance options and support services to both parties. Renters must purchase Turo insurance. They can select from various protection plans that offer different levels of coverage, while owners can also choose plans to protect their vehicles.
Understanding Turo’s Insurance Coverage
Turo offers different levels of insurance coverage to its renters and vehicle owners. Renters can choose from three main protection plans: Minimum, Standard, and Premier. Each plan offers varying levels of liability and property damage protection, including third-party liability insurance up to $750,000.
If you live in a no-fault state, you will also receive the minimum personal injury protection required by your state. Turo only provides uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages if your state requires them.
It’s crucial for both renters and owners to thoroughly review and understand the details of their chosen protection plans to ensure they are adequately covered in case of an accident.
What to Do Immediately After a Turo Accident
- Call 911:
- Contact the local police to report the accident and any injuries. Ensure you obtain a police report.
- Exchange Information:
- Get the contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details with the other parties involved. Also, note the make, model, and license plate number of the vehicles involved.
- Document the Scene:
- Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, property damage, skid marks, broken glass, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- If there are any witnesses, obtain their names and contact information and ask if they are willing to provide a statement.
- Seek Medical Attention:
- Even if you feel fine, getting a medical evaluation is important as some serious injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Report the Accident to Turo:
- Use the Turo app or website to report the accident as soon as possible. You can reach Turo’s roadside assistance at 1-888-391-0460 or through the app.
- Contact Your Personal Auto Insurance:
- Notify your own insurer about the accident.
- Do Not Admit Fault:
- Do not apologize, admit fault, or speculate about the cause of the accident.
- Keep Detailed Records:
- Maintain a detailed record of all accident-related information, including the police report, medical bills, and repair estimates.
- Consult with a Car Accident Attorney:
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney who can guide you through the complex process of filing a Turo accident claim, determining liability, and securing fair compensation. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Determining Liability in a Turo Accident
Determining liability in a Turo accident can be more complex than in a typical car accident due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the renter, the vehicle owner, and potentially Turo itself.
If the Turo Renter/Driver is at Fault
Turo renters are also known as “guests”. If the Turo guest driver is found to be at fault for the accident, their personal auto insurance will be responsible for the damages. However, the Turo driver’s purchased Turo insurance may also be utilized as supplementary coverage. Therefore, you must first file a claim with the Turo driver’s personal auto insurance. If their personal coverage has been exhausted, you can file a claim through Turo’s insurance.
If other parties are injured or their property is damaged, the renter’s insurance can cover these costs up to the policy limits. If the driver does not have personal auto insurance, you must file a claim with Turo to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
If the Turo Car Owner/Host is at Fault
In situations where the Turo car owner or host is found to be at fault, such as if a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, their liability insurance coverage through Turo will be critical. Turo offers different protection plans to vehicle owners, which include liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage caused by defects or maintenance issues.
The extent of this coverage depends on the plan chosen by the owner. If the owner’s negligence in maintaining the vehicle is proven, they could be held responsible for the damages. This liability can include compensation for injuries, property damage, and other accident-related costs.
If a Third Party is at Fault
When a third party is at fault for a Turo accident, the liability typically falls on that third party’s insurance. For instance, if another driver caused the accident, their insurance would be responsible for covering the damages and injuries sustained by all parties involved, including the Turo renter and owner.
It’s important to gather sufficient evidence at the accident scene to support your claim against the third party, including photographs, witness statements, and a police report. Turo’s insurance coverage might still provide some benefits depending on the specifics of the accident and the protection plan in place.
However, the primary responsibility for compensation would lie with the third party’s insurer. A car accident attorney can help you pursue claims against the third party, negotiate settlements, and fight for full and fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Who Pays for Damages and Injuries?
The responsibility for paying for damages and injuries in a Turo accident depends on the circumstances of the accident and the parties involved. If the Turo renter is at fault, their chosen insurance plan through Turo, along with their personal insurance, can cover the costs up to the policy limits.
If the vehicle owner is at fault due to a maintenance issue or defect, their liability insurance through Turo can cover the damages. When a third party is responsible, their insurance should pay for the damages and injuries sustained by the renter, the owner, and any other involved parties.
Compensation for Turo Accident Injuries
Compensation for injuries sustained in a Turo accident can include the following:
- Medical Expenses:
- Hospital bills
- Doctor’s visits
- Surgery costs
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Future medical care related to the accident
- Lost Wages:
- Income lost during recovery
- Compensation for any future lost earning capacity if injuries impact your ability to work long-term
- Pain and Suffering:
- Physical pain endured due to the accident
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property Damage:
- Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle
- Personal belongings damaged in the accident
- Other Related Costs:
- Travel expenses for medical appointments
- Home modifications
- Costs for assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches)
How a Turo Accident Attorney Can Help Your Claim
A Turo accident attorney can help you understand your rights and options under Turo’s insurance policies and ensure all necessary documentation is collected and submitted before the deadlines.
An experienced car accident lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to maximize your settlement for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other damages. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they can represent you in court to pursue the compensation you deserve. Additionally, a car accident attorney can help you navigate any legal issues that arise, such as disputes over liability or coverage. By working with a knowledgeable attorney, you can focus on recovering from your injuries while they deal with the insurance companies.
Contact an Experienced Los Angeles Turo Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a Turo accident, don’t hesitate to contact our award-winning personal injury law firm in Los Angeles. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the nuances of Turo’s insurance policies and California’s personal injury laws, we are well-prepared to navigate the intricacies of these cases.
At Alpha Accident Lawyers, our team of dedicated car accident attorneys understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. We will fight to recover the maximum compensation available. Call our personal injury office today to schedule a free consultation.
