California Turo Accident Attorneys
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Our Turo Accident Attorneys Offer Practical Legal Help After An Accident
Accidents involving car rentals or car-sharing companies, like Turo, are more complex than getting into a crash with a personal car. If you or a loved one was injured in a Turo-related accident, our California accident attorneys can review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you in seeking compensation for your injuries, lost income, and other losses. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Accidents involving rental cars or car-sharing companies such as Turo can be more complicated than crashes with privately owned vehicles. The company was initially founded as RelayRides in Boston in 2010, but it changed its name to Turo in 2015. Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing company that allows people to rent out their motor vehicles through an online and mobile interface.
Zipcar and Car2Go are other common car rental options for people, but Turo lets vehicle owners list their cars on a website and set booking times. Renters coordinate a key exchange, and Turo takes 25 percent of the fee, insures the rental, and settles any disputes about the condition of the car.
Unlike Car2Go, where people have to buy cars and maintain and operate them, Turo only requires people to use a website. Steve Webb, a Turo spokesman, told The Columbian that the decision to change the company name reflected a shift away from short-term rides because more people wanted to rent vehicles for a couple of days.
Turo’s terms of service state that people cannot list any cars they intend to share on Turo or any other car-sharing marketplace, and failure to abide by this condition can result in fines, penalties, denial of physical damage claims, removal of the vehicle from Turo, account closure, or other actions.
One big question many people have about dealing with Turo is what happens when a vehicle rented through Turo is involved in a car accident. While most people maintain the necessary car insurance in California, there can still be numerous issues people encounter when filing a claim after a car accident involving a Turo vehicle, and it can be especially complicated for people to know how to handle these situations.
After a Turo crash injury, consulting car accident lawyers can help clarify liability and support your claim for compensation. At Arash Law Firm, our attorneys handle rental and car-sharing accident claims for clients across California. We can explain your legal rights, review the available insurance coverage, and guide you through the claims process.
Car Rental And Turo Accident Attorneys
People may opt to try Turo for various reasons, including business trips, tourism, or other kinds of adventures. Another possible reason for the Turo name change can stem from the New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) ordering RelayRides to pay a $200,000 fine and cease operations entirely in 2014.
Whereas many other car rental companies focus on very short-term rentals, Steve Webb also told The Columbian that the average Turo rental was five days. Turo also offers roadside assistance when something goes wrong during a rental.
Turo refers to itself as the world’s largest car-sharing marketplace. Booking a car on Turo involves people in the United States who are 18 years of age or older and have a valid driver’s license.
People actually do not need to have car insurance to rent from Turo because the company offers Premier, Standard, or Minimum coverage through third-party automobile liability insurance under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Certain hosts on Turo may offer to deliver cars to airports or other locations.
Turo states that when people are involved in an accident, they should contact the emergency roadside assistance provider, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. While Turo aims to be helpful in these situations, there is still considerable confusion about the proper steps to take after a crash.
Turo claims that its rental costs are lower than those of other car rental companies. In Turo Inc. v. Superior Court, 80 Cal.App.5th 517, 295 Cal. Rptr. 3d 793 (Cal. Ct. App. 2022), the California Court of Appeals for the First District, Division 2, ruled that Turo was not a car rental company.
The government sued Turo under the Unfair Competition Law found in Business and Professions Code § 17200 for operating a rental car business at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) without a required permit, engaging in prohibited curbside transactions at SFO, and using airport roadways and offering services on airport property without permission. Turo stated it was not a rental car company because rental car companies have control over the vehicles in their fleet in a way Turo does not.
Turo accident attorneys can help sort through the insurance and liability questions that often arise after a crash. For example, they can explain whether coverage applies under the host’s policy, Turo’s protection plan, or your insurance.
There are clear advantages and disadvantages to using Turo.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– Arash Khorsandi
Advantages Of Using Turo
Turo is somewhat straightforward for people to use, and it is often cheaper and more convenient for people than traditional rental car companies. The process customarily works as follows:
- A person downloads the mobile app and sets up their account. Doing so will require providing a photo of a driver’s license.
- People can look for available cars in their area and then book a rental. Several cars will be available for $20 to $30 daily, possibly even less.
- When a person requests a booking, vehicle owners will have up to eight hours to respond, although most will respond much quicker. It is also possible to look for a “Book Instantly” listing.
- After a reservation is booked, a person will meet with the vehicle owner to pick up the car. Certain owners may deliver a car for an additional fee.
- After using a car, the person will return the vehicle at the agreed-upon time and location.
Turo also offers a very wide selection of vehicles that includes some rather offbeat choices. People can rent certain high-end exotic or luxury cars, as well as high-performance vehicles, classic or vintage cars, and electric vehicles.
Another major advantage of Turo is that it is willing to rent to drivers 18 years of age, when many rental companies refuse to rent to anybody less than 25. While drivers between 18 and 25 years of age will have to pay a “young driver fee” and meet certain automobile insurance requirements, drivers under 21 cannot rent cars that are valued at more than $20,000.
But with any advantages, there are also disadvantages. Some of our Turo accident attorneys discovered several issues when using the car-sharing service.
Disadvantages Of Using Turo
While many Turo experiences go seamlessly, there can be problems. Any issue with a Turo rental can be a nightmare for a person to navigate their way out of, especially if Turo drivers are involved in motor vehicle accidents. Every single crash always has the potential to be a difficult situation, but dealing with Turo and insurance companies following a collision in a Turo vehicle can only add to a person’s problems.
There are a wide variety of situations in which Turo can become more difficult for a person to deal with. Some of the most common situations include, but are not limited to:
- A vehicle owner’s car is trashed or totaled by a renter, and the owner struggles to recover compensation for their losses.
- A renter receives an unsafe car rental.
- A renter returns a car in good condition, but the owner ultimately bills them for damage or cleaning fees, with Turo charging a cleaning fee of up to $250.
- A renter injures or kills another person in a Turo accident.
The Turo accident attorneys at Arash Law deal with many complex personal injury cases involving different vehicle accidents. If you or a loved one sustained injuries from a Turo crash, our team can guide you throughout the entire claims process.
We can explain your rights, review the insurance coverage available, and help you make informed decisions to address disputes or claims after an accident.
Determining The Cause Of Turo Accidents
All automobiles on the road in California are capable of being involved in accidents, but being in a Turo vehicle can make matters even more complicated. In general, the negligent driver responsible for the crash may be liable for damages, but dealing with insurance can be more complex when Turo is involved. These situations often require careful evaluation of policies and coverage, making legal guidance valuable in navigating the claims process.
How You Can Avoid Issues With Turo
There are certain steps people can take to protect themselves when renting a car from Turo, including:
Thorough Vehicle Inspections And Documentation
A person should be sure to check all of the interior and exterior of a car and then make a note of anything that is not in showroom condition, such as dirt, stains, scratches, dents, or anything that is missing or broken. People should start the car and note the mileage, reporting any dashboard warnings like a “check engine light,” unusual noises or behavior, or anything not working as it should. Try to take pictures or send the information via text or email to keep a record.
You should not skip doing the same thing again when you return the vehicle and take pictures of all the same things. It will be your proof as to whether or not dirt or damage was your fault.
Consider Purchasing Insurance Coverage
Both Turo hosts and renters should purchase insurance protection. Hosts must be aware that regular car insurance does not cover damage to a vehicle if they are renting it out, and renters’ automobile insurance coverage might not cover everything. Credit card insurance similarly only covers vehicle rentals from licensed commercial rental agencies.
Turo offers multiple insurance plans, all of which involve the company agreeing to pay 100 percent of eligible damage costs. People can qualify for up to $750,000 in third-party liability insurance. Turo’s Premium insurance protection provides emergency roadside assistance and up to $1 million in liability insurance with no deductible. At the same time, the Standard and Minimum plans offer the minimum liability insurance required by the state where the car is registered, with a $500 or $3,000 deductible.
Turo’s insurance protection does not include coverage for medical expenses. However, it does provide coverage for uninsured or underinsured motorists.
What To Do After Getting Into A Turo Accident
If you are involved in a Turo accident caused by another driver’s negligence, taking the right steps can help protect both your health and any future claim you may pursue. Here are some things to consider doing after a crash:
- Call 911 & Report the Accident — Contact emergency services and report the accident to local law enforcement. When officers arrive, cooperate fully and request a copy or reference number of the police report. Turo typically requires this documentation when a claim is filed.
- Seek Medical Attention — Even if you feel fine, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical care not only safeguards your health but also creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.
- Exchange Information & Document the Scene — Gather the names, contact details, and insurance information of all drivers involved. If possible, take photographs of your injuries, the vehicles, and the accident scene from different angles. This evidence can be valuable in establishing liability later.
- Consult a Turo Accident Lawyer — Accidents involving rental or car-sharing platforms like Turo often involve added complexities with insurance coverage and liability disputes. A Turo accident attorney can review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the claims process so you can focus on recovery.
Financial Obligations For Vehicle Damage
A person is responsible for covering vehicle damage to a host’s car during their trip, up to the out-of-pocket cost limit of a protection plan. If the person has personal insurance that applies to damage to the host’s vehicle or other third-party property, that coverage applies before the protection plan takes effect.
A person is not responsible for non-reimbursable wear and tear. They are also not responsible for pre-existing damage that they reported and documented before the start of their trip.
A renter and host can work out any issues on their own without having to involve Turo at all. People will still be responsible for covering the costs of any physical damage to a host’s vehicle. However, working out issues privately can spare both parties the hassle of having to file claims and deal with possible administrative fees.
If Turo processes a contractual reimbursement claim for physical damage to a host’s vehicle, it will charge people an initial deposit. Depending on the plan a person selects, the deposit amount can be between nothing and $3,000.
If a person pays a security deposit for their trip, Turo will apply the deposit toward the cost. If the security deposit does not cover the cost, Turo will charge one of the payment cards on the person’s account for the balance or send an invoice.
If a person chooses a protection plan, Turo will pay up to the limit of the out-of-pocket costs allowed by the plan. If a person declines a plan, they will be responsible for all assessed costs for physical damage to a host’s vehicle up to its actual cash value plus related administrative fees.
Because financial obligations in Turo accidents can become complex, especially when multiple parties, insurers, or protection plans are involved, consulting a Turo accident lawyer may be helpful. An attorney can review your situation, explain liability and coverage issues, and guide you through the claims process.
Insurance With Turo
Owners listing their vehicles on Turo can choose the insurance coverage that meets their needs. Coverage options available through insurance providers include up to $750,000 in liability insurance and certain other benefits.
Typically, an owner will be covered when anyone else makes a claim. Turo also offers “guest protection” plans that have various terms and benefits.
With some exceptions, drivers booking vehicles through Turo can apply for insurance that provides:
- Coverage for bodily injuries and property damage.
- Coverage for losses incurred in accidents with uninsured or underinsured motorists.
A renter’s own car insurance policy will always take precedence over a policy provided by Turo’s protection plans. People who are driving their own cars but are involved in accidents caused by Turo drivers may be able to seek compensation for damages through either the driver’s personal insurance policy or the coverage offered under Turo’s protection plans.
Because the process can be complicated, Turo accident attorneys can provide guidance by reviewing the policies involved and clarifying the options available for pursuing a claim. While insurance is not required to rent through Turo, the company does offer various protection plans that create additional layers of coverage.
How Turo Protection Plans Work
Turo has five different protection plans, ranging from a 60 plan to a 75 plan to an 80 plan to an 85 plan to a 90 plan. Every plan offers $750,000 in third-party liability insurance.
Three more key elements of protection plans include:
- Third-Party Liability Insurance from Insurance Provider Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company (Travelers) — This insurance will provide secondary (excess) coverage for damage to another person or their property. A person’s personal insurance will be the primary insurance, and a traveler’s insurance policy will kick in afterward. A Travelers policy will not provide a defense or indemnification for a claim asserted by Turo.
- A Physical Damage Contract Between a Person and Turo — The contract will limit a person’s out-of-pocket costs for physical damage to a host’s vehicle during a trip. It will not remove a person’s responsibility for any interior or mechanical damage they might cause. The contractual limitation will not be insured. Instead, it will be between a person and Turo and will vary depending on the plan a person selects. The cap on any out-of-pocket costs will be applied after any payment from an insurance policy.
- Eligibility for Roadside Assistance Through Turo — Additional costs can apply in these cases, however.
Why Hire Our Turo Accident Attorneys
Turo accident cases often involve unique issues related to liability and insurance coverage. Having legal guidance can help you better understand your rights and the steps available under California law. Here are some of the ways our attorneys may assist after a crash involving a Turo vehicle:
- Case Evaluation — Our lawyers can review the facts of your accident, examine your insurance policy, and help determine whether you may have a valid claim.
- Identifying Liable Parties — Depending on the circumstances, responsibility could rest with another driver, the Turo renter, the vehicle owner, or other third parties. Our attorneys can assess liability based on the available evidence.
- Gathering Evidence — Proving fault in car-sharing accidents can be complex. We can help collect important records such as police reports, photographs, witness statements, or maintenance records to support your case.
- Dealing with Insurers — Insurance companies often dispute or limit coverage in rental and car-sharing accidents. Our attorneys can communicate with insurers on your behalf to address coverage issues and protect your interests.
- Guidance Through the Legal Process — From filing paperwork to explaining your options for settlement or litigation, our team can help you understand each step of the process so you can focus on your recovery.
Call Our Turo Accident Attorneys To Handle Your Claims
California follows a comparative fault system, which means that even if you are partially responsible for an accident, you may still have the right to seek compensation based on the other party’s share of fault. This makes it important to have legal guidance when pursuing a claim, especially in complex cases involving Turo rentals.
At Arash Law Firm, our Turo accident attorneys have experience with personal injury claims across California and understand how to address disputes that may arise over liability, insurance coverage, or damages. Whether through settlement negotiations or, when necessary, litigation, our team is committed to advocating for your rights throughout the process.
Our team provides legal assistance to clients across California, including Los Angeles, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, Bakersfield, Fresno, Anaheim, Riverside, San Luis Obispo, Santa Ana, Oceanside, Santa Rosa, Glendale, Tehachapi, Frazier Park, Fremont, San Bernardino, Visalia, and Gustine.
You can call (888) 488-1391 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with our Turo accident attorneys.
