Personal Injury Lawyer & Car Accident Gold Firm

Turo Accident

Turo is a modern car rental system that involves car-sharing. It has revolutionized the way Californians rent vehicles by offering a modern and convenient alternative to traditional car rental companies. Individuals sign up for the program and offer their vehicles for others to rent. With its flexibility and user-friendly interface, Turo is available for those who wish to rent a vehicle for various reasons, whether for a weekend getaway or a business trip. However, while using Turo can provide a more enjoyable renting experience, Turo car accidents in California can and do happen. Both renters and owners need to understand the common causes of these accidents to stay safe on the roads. It’s also essential to know what steps to take after being involved in a Turo car accident in California.

At the Gold Firm, our California car accident lawyers understand that being involved in a Turo accident can be confusing and stressful due to being in charge of another person’s car. That’s why we want to provide our community with clear information on what to do after a Turo car accident in California. Whether you’re a renter or an owner of a Turo car, knowing the right steps to take can help protect your rights and ensure you retain your right to compensation, and makes it easier for us to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Additionally, we want to inform you about the most common causes of Turo accidents in California, so you can be better prepared and stay safe on the road renting a Turo vehicle.

If you were injured in a California Turo car accident, contact our California personal injury attorneys at 909-308-1118 for a Free Consultation. 

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What Happens If You Get Into an Accident With a Turo Car?

When individuals are involved in Turo car accidents in California, it’s important to follow these steps to protect your health and ensure proper documentation for any potential insurance claims. This will also help you protect your right to compensation for any injuries or damages sustained in the accident:

  1. Seek Medical Attention – Seeking medical care immediately should be your number one priority in the event of a Turo car accident. Prioritizing your health is crucial after an accident, and receiving prompt medical attention ensures that your injuries are properly treated and documented. Adrenaline has been known to mask injuries, and some car accident injuries may be life-threatening, even if you feel fine after the accident. Medical records are also vital for supporting Turo car accident claims against negligent drivers as they provide evidence of the injuries sustained, which will be important when determining compensation in Turo accident settlements.
  2. Call 911 or Local Police to Report the Crash – If there are serious injuries to anyone involved in the Turo accident, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries are minor or seem non-existent, it’s important to contact local authorities so they can respond to the scene to ensure everyone’s safety. Reporting the accident to the police will also result in an official California police report, which can be essential for your insurance or personal injury claim.
  3. Gather Information – While still at the scene, gather as much evidence of the Turo car accident, as possible. Take photos of the damage sustained to all vehicles, any road conditions that contributed to the accident, and any visible injuries. If you cannot, have someone else at the scene or a friend or family member do it for you. Additionally, obtain the other driver’s insurance details and contact information of all involved drivers, and ask for contact details from any witnesses.
  4. Notify Turo of the Accident – One of the most important steps after being involved in a Turo car accident in California is notifying Turo of the incident. Contact the company to report the accident, and they will provide information on your insurance coverage and the next steps to take.
  5. Contact a California Turo Accident LawyerContact a California car accident lawyer at The Gold Firm to ensure your rights are protected after a Turo car accident. A knowledgeable Turo car accident attorney from our firm can provide the legal advice, support, and representation needed throughout the claims and recovery process. For experienced assistance with Turo accidents, reach out to our team at The Gold Firm to ensure your rights are protected and to navigate the complexities of your car insurance claim effectively.

Common Causes of Turo Accidents

There are several common reasons why Turo car accidents happen in California, often stems from the unique dynamics of renting a vehicle through a peer-to-peer platform. Knowing the common causes of Turo car accidents will help those renting a vehicle better prepare themselves to stay safe while on California roads. Below are some of the most frequent causes of Turo accidents in California:

  • Inexperience with California Roads – California’s diverse and often congested roads can be challenging to navigate, especially if you’ve never done it before. This is particularly true for out-of-state renters or those unfamiliar with the area. Navigating freeways, heavy traffic, and local road rules can result in Turo car accidents for those not accustomed to California’s driving conditions.

  • Being Unfamiliar with the Vehicle – Many Turo renters find themselves driving vehicles they’ve never operated before, which can lead to mistakes. This unfamiliarity with the vehicle, whether related to unique handling or advanced features, can result in dangerous situations if drivers try to adjust or use basic functions like adjusting mirrors or using wipers while on the road.

  • Driving Under the Influence – Impaired driving remains a serious issue in California, even among Turo renters. Combining unfamiliar vehicles with impaired judgment from alcohol or drug use creates a dangerous situation for everyone on the road. When drivers choose to drink and drive, there is an increased likelihood of serious accidents.

  • Poor Vehicle Maintenance – While Turo sets maintenance guidelines for vehicles rented, some owners may not strictly follow them. Mechanical failures such as brake issues, tire blowouts, or engine problems can go unnoticed by renters until they lead to an accident while traveling down the road. This makes it very important for owners to ensure proper upkeep of their vehicles.

  • Speeding and Reckless Driving – Renters may feel the urge to make the most of their time with a rental, leading to speeding or reckless driving. High-performance vehicles available through Turo can also tempt drivers to push speed limits, significantly raising the risk of accidents.

How Does Turo Work When Renting a Car?

When people want to rent a car from the Turo app-based platform, it is fairly simple. Individuals looking to rent a vehicle start by signing up for the service and uploading their driver’s license information for approval. Once their driver’s license is approved, users can choose from a variety of vehicles available in their area, selecting the one that suits their needs and budget.

Renters who use the Turo app are also required to choose insurance coverage for the vehicle they are renting, though it’s important to note that in California, Turo’s insurance does not include Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This means that if you’re involved in a Turo car accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, Turo’s insurance won’t cover your injuries.

After selecting a vehicle and insurance coverage, users arrange to meet the host to pick up the car. Before driving away, the renter uses the Turo app to check in and document the car’s condition by taking photos of both the interior and exterior. Upon returning the car, another set of photos will be required via the app to confirm the vehicle’s return condition. This streamlined process ensures a smooth Turo car rental experience and offers protection for both the renter and the vehicle owner.

Contact an Experienced California Car Accident Lawyer Near You

Motorcycle Accident LawyerIf you’ve been injured in a Turo car accident in California, it’s important to have experienced legal support on your side. At The Gold Firm, our team of California car accident lawyers is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your Turo car accident case. We understand the unique challenges involved in Turo accidents, from insurance claim complications to determining liability, and are committed to helping you obtain the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss your Turo car accident case and ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process.