Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore your destination on your own terms. However, even the most cautious drivers may experience a mishap. What should you do if you’re involved in an accident with a rental car? Who is responsible for covering the costs if there’s damage to a rental car? And what does Greek rental car legislation say about your responsibilities?
Whether you're picking up your vehicle from the port, a city location, or an airport, it's essential to be informed - especially if you're planning car rentals in Piraeus or any other busy hub.
If you’ve had an accident with a rental car, your first concern should always be safety. Ensure that you and your passengers are okay. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately.
Then, follow these key steps:
Contact the rental company immediately. They typically have a dedicated emergency number and will guide you on the next actions.
Notify the local police, especially if there are injuries, disputes with the other driver, or significant damage.
Take clear photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, license plates, and any road signs or skid marks.
Never admit fault at the scene. Let the insurance companies and police reports handle liability.
Your financial responsibility for damage to a rental car depends on the type of insurance coverage you selected during the booking.
Here are the common types:
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Reduces your liability but usually includes an excess (deductible).
FDW (Full Damage Waiver): Offers full coverage with no deductible, covering most damages, even minor scratches.
TP (Theft Protection): Covers the vehicle in case of theft.
If you only opted for the basic third-party insurance, you could be held liable for the full cost of repairs to the rental vehicle - which can be expensive. It’s always advisable to consider additional insurance for peace of mind.
Greek rental car legislation requires rental companies to provide basic liability insurance (third-party coverage) with every booking. However, this only covers damage or injury to other people and their property - not to the rental vehicle itself.
Drivers are responsible for any damage to a rental car unless they’ve purchased additional coverage. Keep in mind, if you're driving under the influence or violating traffic laws, insurance policies may not apply.
Also, driving on unpaved roads, using the vehicle off-road without permission, or allowing unauthorized drivers to operate the car can void your coverage.
If you’re starting your trip at a busy hub like a seaport or airport, it’s crucial to rent from a trustworthy company. For example, if you're arriving by ferry, car rentals in Piraeus are a popular choice. However, make sure the company offers full customer support and transparent insurance options.
For air travelers, check out our services for car rental Athens airport or car rental Thessaloniki airport, where Let’s Drive offers a seamless pickup and drop-off process, even in emergency situations.
Before you drive off, inspect the vehicle thoroughly for any existing damage - scratches, dents, chipped glass - and make sure they’re documented in your rental agreement. Take photos or videos with your phone as a precaution.
When returning the vehicle, try to do it during business hours and have a rental agent inspect the car with you. If you’re dropping it off after hours, take clear photos and notify the company via email or app.
Need more safety tips? Read our Safe Driving Guide to help reduce the risk of accidents during your trip.
If the other driver is responsible for the accident with the rental car, the process can vary. Still, it's essential to file a police report and get the other party’s insurance details. If your rental company offers full insurance, they will usually handle the claim directly and may provide a replacement vehicle.
Even if you're not at fault, your cooperation with local authorities and the rental company is crucial. Avoid making side agreements or accepting cash settlements.
An accident with a rental car doesn’t have to ruin your trip. The most important thing is to stay calm, document everything, and contact your rental provider right away.
Choosing the right company can make a big difference. At Let’s Drive, we prioritize transparency, full insurance options, and real-time support - whether you're booking in the city, at the port, or looking for convenient car rentals in Piraeus.
So before you hit the road, make sure you understand the fine print. Having the right coverage and knowing what to do in case of an emergency ensures your vacation continues smoothly, even if the unexpected happens.
