Driving a rental car doesn’t change DUI charges, but it can add additional complications to your case. The rental company may charge you additional fees for violating the rental agreement. You may also need to pay additional fees for any damage to the car, even if the DUI incident didn’t cause it.
If you have been arrested for DUI while driving a rental car, contact Los Angeles DUI Lawyer immediately for a free consultation.
What Are the Immediate Consequences of a DUI in a Rental Car?
If you’re pulled over and arrested for DUI while driving a rental car, the immediate consequences are similar to those of a regular DUI arrest. You’ll likely be taken into custody, and your driver’s license may be confiscated.
You’ll face fines, license suspension, and even jail time, depending on how your case plays out. The rental car will probably be impounded. Unlike with your personal vehicle, you won’t have the option to retrieve it later.
Will I Have to Pay for the Impounded Rental Car?
When a rental car is impounded due to a DUI, you’ll likely be responsible for the impound and storage fees. These can accumulate quickly, especially if the rental company doesn’t retrieve the vehicle promptly.
The rental company may also charge you for the whole rental period, even if the car is impounded and you can’t use it. If the rental period expires while the car is impounded, you could face additional fees for late return or abandonment of the vehicle.
We recommend contacting the rental company as soon as possible to discuss the situation and understand your financial obligations. You can also review the fine print of your rental agreement to understand the company’s policy.
How Will This Affect My Car Insurance?
A DUI in a rental car can significantly impact your car insurance. As with any DUI conviction, your insurance rates may rise substantially. You may also have to purchase SR-22 coverage at an additional cost. Your current policy may also get canceled by the insurer.
If you bought additional insurance through the rental company, your coverage may get denied because you allegedly broke the law by driving while DUI. In a crash situation, that could make you personally liable for paying compensation.
Can the Rental Car Company Press Charges Against Me?
The rental car company can’t press criminal charges against you for getting a DUI while driving their car, but they can take other legal actions.
The company could file a civil case against you for breach of contract or damages to their vehicle. They might also report the incident to your insurance company, which could lead to increased premiums or policy cancellation.
Also, some rental companies maintain internal blacklists. A DUI incident could result in you being banned from renting from that company.
Should I Inform the Rental Car Company About the DUI?
Deciding whether to inform the rental car company about the DUI is delicate. Many rental agreements require you to report any accidents or incidents involving the vehicle. Failing to do so could be considered a breach of contract.
However, anything you say to the rental company could be used against you in legal proceedings. It’s advisable to consult with a DUI attorney before communicating with the rental company.
If the police impounded the vehicle, the rental company would likely be notified anyway, so get ahead of the story by working with an attorney as soon as you can.
Is a DUI in a Rental Car Treated Differently on My Driving Record?
A DUI conviction in a rental car is treated the same as a DUI in your vehicle when it comes to your driving record. The fact that you were driving a rental car doesn’t change the offense. If you are convicted, the DUI will appear on your record regardless of vehicle ownership.
A DUI conviction is a serious offense that will remain on your record for many years. In California, a DUI typically stays on your driving record for ten years from the violation date.
The impact on your driving record begins from the moment of arrest, not just upon conviction. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may take administrative action for driving under the influence before the criminal justice system resolves your criminal case.
What Legal Steps Should I Take After a DUI in a Rental Car?
If you’ve been arrested for DUI while driving a rental car, taking prompt legal action is crucial. Contact a Los Angeles DUI attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.
Only discuss the details of your case with your attorney. Anything you say could be used against you in court. Bring your rental agreement and any citation you received to your legal consultation.
Remember, a DUI charge is not the same as a conviction. You can work to challenge the charges or negotiate for reduced penalties with proper legal representation.
Contact a Los Angeles DUI Lawyer for Help
Dealing with a DUI charge while driving a rental car can be overwhelming. You’re facing potential criminal penalties and complications with the rental company and your insurance provider.
A team of experienced attorneys can help you understand your legal rights, guide you through the legal process, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
