Dealing with Damages - MontenegroCar

Navigate car rental damages during car rental with ease - your guide to insurance options, immediate steps, and smooth claims processing.

Renting a car can be a liberating experience, allowing you to explore Montenegro at your own pace. However, accidents happen, and it's essential to know what to do if your rental car gets damaged. At Montenegrocar, we prioritise your safety and convenience. Here's a comprehensive guide on handling damages and the insurance we offer.

What kind of damages can happen and what to do in that situation?

Common Damages and Immediate Steps

These Damages are covered fully, or above the amount of excess (damage coverage), by CDW and SCDW Insurance plans:

• Dents and Dings: These can occur from minor collisions, hailstorms, or even from other car doors in parking lots.
• Scratches: These can be caused by a variety of factors, from minor accidents to brushing against bushes or trees, or even vandalism.
• Bumper Damage: Bumpers often bear the brunt of low-speed collisions, parking mishaps, or accidentally backing into objects.
• Broken Lights: Taillights, headlights, or turn signals can get cracked or stop functioning due to collisions.
• Alignment Issues: Hitting curbs or driving on uneven roads can lead to alignment problems, causing the car to pull to one side.
• Exhaust System Damage: This can be caused by holes or physical damage from rough roads.

These Damages are covered fully, or above the amount of excess (damage coverage), by the WUG Insurance plan:

• Cracked or Chipped Windshield: Flying debris, hail, or sudden temperature changes can cause the windshield to crack or chip.
• Flat or Damaged Tires: Driving over sharp objects on the road, potholes, or wear and tear can lead to tire punctures or damage.
• Undercarriage Damage: Driving over rough terrains, deep potholes, or debris can cause damage to the underparts of the car.
• Mirror Damage: Side mirrors can get clipped in tight spaces or during minor collisions.

Other Damages include:

• Interior Wear and Tear: Spills, cigarette burns, or general use can lead to damage to the car's interior, including seats, floor mats, and dashboard. These do not fall under any Insurance plan, and so the client is fully liable.
• Battery Damage: Leaving the car unprotected during extreme weather conditions, or leaving lights and electronics on can drain or damage the car battery.

While the examples above are common, damages can vary. Regardless of the type, the client is responsible for any damage to the car. Nevertheless, always stick to procedures and try to get a police report since it might help you get your money back. For example, if a bump on a Montenegrin highway causes car damage, you are liable to get reimbursement from the relevant institution, in this case, the AMSCG.

These are some of the most frequent issues renters face. If you encounter any of these:

• Step 1: Call the police to obtain a report. This is crucial to validate how the damage occurred.
• Step 2: Inform us immediately. We provide road assistance for a price, ensuring you're not stranded.

Understanding Your Insurance Options

Damaging a car leads to potentially very high fees. Depending on the type of insurance you choose, you will be liable (or not) in the event of accidents or damages.

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): This waiver doesn't cover interior damages, tire and wheel damages, under-floor damages, lost or broken keys, or damages from incorrect fuel usage. It also doesn't cover damages caused knowingly or negligently.

TP (Theft Protection): This limits your liability if the car is stolen. However, if the car is unlocked or the key is left inside during theft, it becomes invalid.

CDW Plus: This offers partial coverage for collision damages. The coverage amount varies based on car category and rental duration.

SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver): This comprehensive insurance covers most damages. However, unreported damages or those caused knowingly or negligently are not covered.

WUG (Wheels Undercarriage and Glass Protection): This covers damages to windows, wheels, and undercarriage. The coverage amount depends on the car category and rental duration.

PAI (Personal Accident Insurance): This covers accidents, injuries, or death of a passenger or driver.

MontenegroCar has three Insurance packages on offer. These include Total, Conditional and Zero Liability.

Charges and Documentation

• If you have the appropriate insurance and documentation, you won't be charged for the damages.
• If the damage isn't covered by your insurance, charges will be based on predefined rates and the car category, deducted from the deposit reserved on your credit card during pickup. An administrative fee for processing the damage will also apply.
• Upon returning the vehicle, ensure you provide all necessary documents, such as the police report, alcohol test record, European accident report, etc. Additionally, you'll need to fill out an accident statement at our office.

Detailed Guide to Filling Out the European Accident Statement

When you're involved in a traffic incident in Montenegro, the European Accident Statement form is your go-to document for recording the details. It's crucial for insurance claims and to establish the facts clearly. This guide will walk you through each section of the form so you can complete it with ease, even under stress. In the unfortunate event of an accident, both parties should fill out the following form:

Form Sections Explained:

1. Date and Time of Accident: Fill in the exact date and time when the accident occurred.
2. Location: Provide the specific place or address where the incident took place.
3. Personal Details: Write your full name, address, and contact information. Repeat this for the other party involved in the second column.
4. Vehicle Information: Enter the make, model, and registration number of your car. Include the same details for the other vehicle involved.
5. Insurance Details: List the name of your insurance company and your policy number. Do the same for the other party's insurance information.
6. Circumstances of the Accident: Check the boxes that apply to your situation. These boxes help explain the accident visually. Be sure to only check boxes that accurately represent the incident.
7. Driver Details: Provide the driver’s name, date of birth, and contact details. If the driver is different from the insured party, make sure to clarify this.
8. Damage to Vehicles: Sketch the position of the vehicles at the time of the accident. Indicate points of impact and visible damage on the diagrams provided.
9. Witness Information: If there were any witnesses, write down their names and contact information.
10. Remarks: Use the space provided to add any additional notes or observations you have about the incident.
11. Signatures: Both drivers should sign the form to validate the information provided.

Final Steps:

• Review all sections to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Exchange the completed forms with the other party involved.
• Keep a copy for your records and submit another to Montenegrocar for insurance processing.

Filling out the European Accident Statement correctly is a critical step in the event of an accident. It ensures that all the necessary details are captured for a smooth insurance claim process. Always keep a copy in your vehicle, and don't hesitate to contact Montenegrocar for assistance if needed.

Remember, filling out this form at the accident scene is vital. It helps to establish the facts while they are fresh in your mind and provides a clear account of the incident for all involved parties, including your rental company and insurance providers. You can download the European Accident Statement in English, or in several other languages.

While we hope your journey is smooth, it's always best to be prepared. At Montenegrocar, we're here to support you every step of the way. Drive safely and enjoy your trip!

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