Las Vegas Rental Car Accident Attorney

Rental car accidents happen across the country, but nowhere are they more common than in Las Vegas. With millions of tourists visiting each year, the city sees a constant flow of unfamiliar drivers navigating high-traffic corridors, resort drop-off zones, and complex freeway systems. Visitors unfamiliar with local driving laws, signage, or the city’s layout often cause accidents—particularly near hotel driveways, intersections on the Strip, and multilane merging zones.

If you were injured in a rental car crash, you may already be dealing with serious physical injuries, medical bills, and unanswered questions about liability. These cases are rarely simple. Multiple insurance policies may apply. The at-fault driver may be from out of state. Rental contracts may shift responsibility in ways that confuse even experienced adjusters. At Drummond Law Firm personal injury lawyer in Las Vegas, we help injured victims sort through the confusion, identify all responsible parties, and fight for the compensation they need to recover.

Why Drummond Law Firm Is the Right Choice for Rental Car Accident Claims

Rental car accident cases require more than general legal advice. They demand structure, attention to policy details, and a legal strategy tailored to cross-jurisdictional challenges. These claims often involve drivers who live in other states, insurers who deny responsibility, and rental companies that try to pass blame to someone else. At Drummond Law Firm car accident lawyers in Las Vegas, we are built to handle those complications head-on.

We bring trial experience, military discipline, and client-first service to every case we handle. From the moment you contact our firm, we begin investigating your crash, reviewing your insurance coverage, and preserving the evidence you will need to make a strong claim.

Led by a Decorated Army Captain and JAG Attorney

Attorney Craig W. Drummond is a former U.S. Army Captain and Judge Advocate General attorney who earned the Bronze Star Medal for his service during combat deployments. His leadership background brings clarity and structure to every legal challenge. That approach is especially important in complex, multi-layered accident claims like those involving rental cars. Our team investigates, documents, and prepares each case as if it may proceed to trial.

Personal Attention and Legal Clarity for Out-of-State Clients

Many rental car accident victims are not from Nevada. They live in other states and return home shortly after the crash, leaving their medical care, insurance claim, and legal concerns unresolved. Our firm provides direct attorney access, consistent communication, and remote case management to ensure you are supported regardless of where you live. We help out-of-state clients navigate Nevada law without requiring unnecessary travel or delays.

The Reduced Fee Guarantee

Our firm guarantees that our fee will never exceed what the client receives. That policy—our Reduced Fee Guarantee®—ensures you always take home more than your attorney. It reflects our commitment to fairness and puts our clients first in every resolution we pursue.

How Rental Car Accidents Happen in Las Vegas

Tourism drives a significant percentage of vehicle traffic in Las Vegas. That means rental cars are involved in a large number of crashes each year. In many cases, the cause of the crash relates directly to the driver’s unfamiliarity with the roadways, distractions, or misunderstandings about right-of-way rules in Nevada.

Tourists Unfamiliar With Las Vegas Traffic Patterns

Drivers who rent a car while visiting often rely heavily on navigation apps or printed maps. They may focus more on locating their hotel than on staying in their lane. Many do not realize how quickly the traffic moves on I‑15 or how confusing surface streets can be around the Strip. This confusion frequently leads to missed turns, sudden stops, or dangerous maneuvers that place other drivers and pedestrians at risk.

Unsafe Lane Changes Near the Strip and Hotel Corridors

The Strip is one of the most congested areas in Las Vegas. Tourists in rental cars often change lanes abruptly to reach a parking garage, respond to a rideshare prompt, or access a valet entrance. These last-minute decisions lead to sideswipe collisions, rear-end crashes, and crosswalk incidents. Even if the rental driver claims they were lost or distracted by signage, they can still be held legally responsible for any harm caused.

Rear-End and Stop-and-Go Accidents in High-Volume Areas

Rental cars are frequently involved in rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic near intersections, hotels, and construction zones. Some drivers are unfamiliar with traffic flow and hesitate during green lights. Others fail to stop in time because they are looking at a screen or searching for a destination. These crashes often lead to injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or back strain.

Who Is Liable After a Rental Car Crash?

Liability in a rental car crash depends on several factors, including who was driving, how the rental was booked, whether any damage waivers were accepted, and which insurance policies apply. In many cases, more than one party may share responsibility. At Drummond Law Firm, we conduct a full liability analysis to ensure every potential source of compensation is explored.

The Rental Driver and Their Personal Insurance

If the rental car driver caused the crash, their personal insurance may provide primary coverage. However, many policies limit or exclude coverage when the vehicle is a rental. Drivers who declined rental car insurance may not have sufficient protection, especially if they purchased only the minimum liability coverage in their home state. We examine all available policies and determine where the claim should be submitted.

The Rental Car Company

In some cases, the rental company may share liability. This might occur if the company failed to maintain the vehicle, did not disclose mechanical defects, or knowingly rented to someone without a valid license. Companies also become involved when they provide supplemental insurance or optional protection plans. We review rental agreements, inspect maintenance records, and pursue claims against the company if warranted.

Third-Party Drivers and Local Businesses

If you were driving a rental car and were struck by another vehicle, that driver’s insurance is generally the first source of compensation. However, if a business vehicle, shuttle, or delivery van was involved, liability may also extend to the employer or operator. We analyze each party’s role in the crash and submit claims to all appropriate carriers.

Municipal Liability in Poorly Marked or Maintained Areas

Some crashes occur because of broken traffic signals, missing signage, or poorly designed intersections. In these cases, the local government entity responsible for road maintenance or traffic control may bear responsibility. These claims require fast action and special filing procedures, which we handle on behalf of our clients.

Understanding Rental Car Insurance and Policy Overlap

Rental car crashes frequently involve overlapping policies that can confuse even experienced drivers. You may have coverage through your personal auto insurer, through the rental company’s optional plans, or through a credit card that provided protection when the rental was booked. Understanding how these layers interact is essential to securing full compensation.

Rental Company Coverage Options and Exclusions

Rental companies typically offer collision damage waivers, liability coverage supplements, and personal accident insurance. However, these add-ons often contain exclusions that limit when they apply. Some waivers cover only damage to the rental car, not injuries or other vehicles. Others do not apply if the driver violates any rental terms. We help clients understand what coverage they purchased and whether it applies.

Personal Auto Policy UM/UIM and Collision Coverage

Your own auto insurance policy may provide coverage while driving a rental, especially for collision damage and uninsured motorist protection. If you are hit by a driver with no insurance, your UM benefits may cover your medical bills and other losses. We review your declarations page and policy language to determine exactly what coverage applies and how it interacts with the rental agreement.

Credit Card Supplemental Benefits and Limitations

Some credit cards offer secondary insurance benefits for rentals paid in full with the card. These benefits vary widely and often cover only damage to the rental vehicle—not liability or medical expenses. Additionally, the cardholder must meet strict requirements, such as declining the rental company’s collision waiver. We work with clients to document eligibility and confirm available protections.

Out-of-State Visitors Injured in Nevada: What You Need to Know

Many rental car crashes in Las Vegas involve drivers or passengers who live in other states or countries. After an accident, these individuals often return home quickly, leaving their injuries, property damage, and legal questions unresolved. What they may not realize is that Nevada law governs accidents that happen here, regardless of where the drivers live or where the vehicle is registered.

If you were hurt in a rental car accident while visiting Las Vegas, your case will likely need to be handled in Nevada. That means dealing with Nevada courts, Nevada insurers, and a legal system that may be different from what you are used to. You do not need to return to Las Vegas to pursue a claim—but you do need a Nevada-based law firm that can handle everything on your behalf.

At Drummond Law Firm, we regularly represent out-of-state clients injured in local crashes. We offer remote consultations, flexible communication, and full legal management of your claim from start to finish. Our goal is to give you confidence and control, even if you are managing your recovery from hundreds or thousands of miles away.

Common Injuries in Las Vegas Rental Car Accidents

Rental car collisions often result in high-force impacts. Drivers may be navigating unfamiliar roads, turning into the wrong lane, or braking too late at intersections. These conditions, combined with the weight and speed of moving vehicles, can lead to significant physical and emotional injuries.

Whiplash and Spinal Trauma

Neck and back injuries are among the most frequently reported outcomes of rental car accidents. Sudden jerking motions during a collision can stretch or damage the muscles, ligaments, and vertebrae of the spine. Symptoms may include pain, reduced range of motion, tingling, or long-term stiffness. These injuries often require physical therapy and sometimes injections or surgery.

Head Injuries and Concussions

When the head strikes a window, dashboard, or headrest, the result may be a concussion or more serious traumatic brain injury. Clients with these injuries frequently report dizziness, confusion, memory problems, and sensitivity to light or sound. In some cases, cognitive symptoms persist for weeks or months. Medical evaluation and neurological testing are essential.

Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries

Fractures to the wrist, arm, hip, or leg are common in rental car crashes, especially when the impact occurs at intersections or during a side-swipe. These injuries may require casting, surgical repair, or hardware installation. Recovery can take months and may temporarily or permanently affect a person’s ability to work or drive.

Emotional Distress, Anxiety, and PTSD

The psychological effects of a crash are often underestimated. Victims of serious collisions may experience nightmares, panic attacks, or difficulty riding in vehicles. These symptoms can affect relationships, work performance, and overall mental health. We include emotional injuries in our claims and help clients connect with counseling and therapeutic resources when needed.

Steps to Take After a Rental Car Accident in Las Vegas

Knowing what to do immediately after a crash can protect your health, strengthen your legal case, and prevent unnecessary complications with insurers. These steps apply whether you are a Nevada resident or an out-of-state visitor.

Get Medical Attention and Report the Crash

Even if you feel fine at first, seek medical care as soon as possible. Many injuries develop hours or days after a collision, and having an early medical record is critical to proving the connection between your symptoms and the crash. Always report the accident to law enforcement. A police report provides a neutral third-party record of what happened and often includes helpful details about fault, location, and witness statements.

Notify the Rental Company and Your Insurer

Rental agreements typically require prompt notification of any collision. Contact the rental company and follow their instructions, but avoid admitting fault or providing excessive detail. You should also notify your own insurance provider if your personal policy may apply. Let them know where and when the crash happened and that you are working with an attorney. Do not sign any documents without legal guidance.

Document Damage, Location, and Conditions

Use your phone to take photos of the vehicle damage, license plates, intersection or crash location, skid marks, and any visible injuries. These images can help prove how the crash occurred and who was involved. If possible, write down the time, weather conditions, traffic flow, and anything unusual about the crash scene.

Avoid Recorded Statements Until You Have Legal Advice

Insurance adjusters may reach out within hours of the crash and ask you to give a recorded statement. Do not do this without speaking to a car accident lawyer. These statements can be used against you, especially if you are unfamiliar with local law or if the crash occurred while using a rental. We take over all communication with insurers to protect your interests and ensure that your words are not taken out of context.

How Drummond Law Firm Investigates Rental Car Crash Cases

Every case begins with a careful investigation. In rental car accidents, there may be more than one source of liability and more than one layer of insurance coverage. Our job is to uncover the full picture, preserve key evidence, and present a clear, well-documented claim that supports full compensation.

We begin by reviewing police reports, crash diagrams, and any available camera footage. This may include red-light cameras, surveillance from nearby hotels or businesses, or dash cam video. We also request the rental agreement, examine policy documents, and identify which insurance carriers are involved.

When needed, we consult crash reconstruction experts who evaluate impact angles, speed, and road conditions. These professionals help us determine who had the right of way and whether any driver’s actions created unnecessary danger. We also coordinate with medical experts and life care planners to assess your injuries and calculate future treatment costs.

Throughout the investigation, we manage all insurance communications and ensure that deadlines, notice requirements, and jurisdictional rules are followed precisely. Our preparation gives us leverage in settlement discussions and positions us to proceed to trial when necessary.

If you were hurt in a rental car crash—whether as a tourist, a local driver, or a passenger—you should not have to untangle overlapping insurance policies or fight insurers alone. These cases involve legal and logistical challenges that many firms are not equipped to handle. Drummond Law Firm is ready to take on that challenge.

Our team brings structure, clarity, and trial-ready discipline to every case we handle. Attorney Craig W. Drummond, a decorated U.S. Army Captain and former JAG attorney, leads with experience and integrity. We provide direct attorney access, thorough investigation, and personal attention from start to finish.

We offer free consultations and charge no legal fees unless we win. And with our Reduced Fee Guarantee, you will always take home more than our firm. That is our promise to every client we represent.

Call the Captain at 702-CAPTAIN or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. We are here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and trusted legal support.