Legal Disclaimer: This policy is a working draft and does not constitute legal advice. Final terms will be reviewed and approved by a licensed attorney.
Damage Responsibility
Understanding renter responsibilities for vehicle damage during your rental period.
Overview
As the renter, you are responsible for the vehicle during your rental period. This includes:
- Physical damage to the vehicle (exterior and interior)
- Damage caused by accidents, negligence, or misuse
- Theft of the vehicle or its contents
- Mechanical damage resulting from misuse or neglect
Your full-coverage auto insurance is primary and covers most damage scenarios. Please review our Insurance Policy for details.
Pre-Rental Vehicle Inspection
When we deliver the van to you, we conduct a thorough walkthrough and vehicle inspection together. This includes:
- Documenting existing damage (if any) with photos
- Verifying odometer reading
- Checking fuel level
- Testing lights, signals, and basic functions
Both you and our team will sign off on the vehicle's condition at delivery. This documentation protects both parties by establishing a baseline.
What is Considered Damage?
Damage includes, but is not limited to:
Collision Damage
Dents, scratches, broken glass, body damage, or structural damage from accidents or impacts.
Interior Damage
Stains, burns, rips, or tears to seats and upholstery; broken components (handles, dashboard, etc.); excessive dirt or debris requiring deep cleaning.
Mechanical Damage
Engine damage, transmission problems, or other mechanical issues caused by misuse (e.g., running the vehicle without oil, ignoring warning lights, off-road use).
Theft
If the vehicle is stolen during your rental period, you are responsible up to the limits of your comprehensive insurance coverage.
Normal Wear and Tear (Not Your Responsibility)
You are not responsible for:
- Minor scuffs or scratches that occur from normal, careful use
- Mechanical failures not caused by misuse or neglect
- Tire wear consistent with normal driving
- Pre-existing damage documented at delivery
Reporting Damage or Accidents
If the vehicle is damaged during your rental, you must:
- Notify us immediately at (954) 703-9214. Don't wait until return—call us as soon as damage occurs.
- File a police report if the damage involves an accident with another vehicle, theft, vandalism, or hit-and-run.
- Document the damage with photos showing the extent and location of damage.
- Do not arrange repairs without our authorization. We will coordinate repairs and work with your insurance company.
Failure to report damage promptly may result in additional charges or complications with insurance claims.
Insurance Claims Process
If damage occurs and a claim is necessary:
- You (or we, on your behalf) will file a claim with your insurance company
- Your insurance will assess the damage and approve repairs
- You may need to pay your insurance deductible (typically $500–$1,000, depending on your policy)
- We will coordinate repairs with an approved shop
- Your insurance will pay for repairs beyond your deductible amount
We work with your insurance company to make the process as smooth as possible.
Security Deposit and Damage Charges
We place a security deposit hold on your credit card at the start of the rental. This deposit covers potential damage costs. Here's how it works:
- No damage: The hold is released when you return the vehicle in good condition
- Minor damage (under your deductible): We may charge your card directly for small repairs (e.g., a scratched bumper, cleaning fee) if they're below your insurance deductible
- Major damage: We work with your insurance to process a claim. You may be responsible for your deductible, which will be charged to your card
Loss of Use Charges
If the vehicle is damaged to the extent that it cannot be rented while undergoing repairs, you (or your insurance) may be responsible for "loss of use" charges. This compensates us for the rental income lost while the vehicle is out of service.
Your insurance typically covers loss of use as part of the claim, but check with your provider to confirm.
Preventing Damage
Most damage is preventable with responsible use. Here are tips to keep the vehicle in great shape:
- ✓Drive carefully and obey all traffic laws
- ✓Park in safe, well-lit areas when possible
- ✓Keep the van locked when unattended
- ✓Report mechanical warning lights or unusual sounds immediately
- ✓Don't overload the vehicle beyond its passenger or weight capacity
Questions About Damage Responsibility?
We're here to help. If you have questions about damage, insurance claims, or what to do in the event of an accident, contact us anytime.
Phone: (954) 703-9214
Email: info@tigertailrentals.com