As unfortunate as car accidents are, they remain one of the most common occurrences on the road. Car accidents can happen at any time of night and day and they can also happen to any type of vehicle. When a leased vehicle is involved in an accident, it presents special implications. Leased vehicles are technically automobiles that a buyer “borrows” from a dealership.
In every lease, there is explicit language prohibiting modification and stipulating mileage restrictions. Once an accident occurs, it changes things. Now the dealership has to worry about the condition of the vehicle and the buyer must worry about the status of the lease agreement. In this article, we outline the steps that must be taken to resolve car accidents involving leased vehicles. We will also tell you how a Midland, Texas car accident lawyer can help.
Contact the Authorities
No matter what the ownership status of the vehicle is, the authorities must be alerted to the accident. It is important that someone calls your local police and fire departments to report the accident. Officers will talk to any drivers, passengers, and witnesses on the scene and record their findings in a police report.
You should also speak to the driver of the other vehicle. Record specific information such as:
- Name and address
- Make, model, and year of vehicle
- Insurance company
It Is much easier for you to contact the other party of you have their information available. It is also helpful to have a copy of the police report. It should be available a few days after the accident. All drivers and passengers should also visit the local hospital to get a thorough medical examination. Medical professionals will check for any and all signs of injury from the accident.
Talk to The Insurance Company
Once you have spoken to the authorities, contact your dealership. You can speak to a representative in the finance department about the situation. If you leased the vehicle through a bank or third party, you must contact them as well. Let them know about the accident and send them a copy of the police report. You should also let them know what repair shop the vehicle has been towed to.
Upon learning the news, the insurance company will send a claims adjuster to the repair shop or your direct location to evaluate the damage. The adjuster will speak to you about the repairs process. In most leases, repair costs are automatically covered by the dealership. It is important to defer to your lease agreement during the repairs process. Agreements are strict about repairs and may require that only original manufacturer parts are used. The only way you will know about the requirements is by speaking with the adjuster.
Filing A Claim
It Is your right to file a claim against the other party if you believe they are at fault for the accident. Midland, Texas drivers should contact a Midland, Texas car accident lawyer to begin the process. If you decide not to sue, you can use your collision insurance to repair the vehicle. Most drivers are required to carry liability and collision insurance as part of a lease agreement.
Ask Your Midland Texas Car Accident Lawyers at Robert White
If you have a leased vehicle and you have recently been involved in a car accident, contact Braker White. We offer free case evaluations! Call us today or visit our website to learn more.
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