The Complete Dollar SBH Guide to Reacting Calmly and Effectively
Renting a car in Saint Barth means enjoying total freedom on the island — discovering secret beaches, cruising between Gustavia’s restaurants, or climbing up to your villa in the hills. But like anywhere else, a scratch, a broken mirror, a cracked windshield, or even a more serious accident can happen, sometimes despite all precautions.
At Dollar SBH, we understand that unexpected damage can be stressful — especially while on vacation. That’s why we’ve put in place clear, efficient procedures to support you every step of the way in the event of damage to your rental vehicle.
Here’s our comprehensive, reassuring guide to help you know exactly what to do, step by step, if your car gets damaged during your stay in Saint Barthélemy.
1. Stay Calm – These Things Can Happen to Anyone
First of all: don’t panic. Whether you clipped a mirror while parking in Gustavia or were involved in a more serious accident, the most important thing is to stay calm. Our team is here to help you — and we’ll work together to find the quickest, most fair solution.
2. Secure the Area if Necessary
In the case of an accident involving another vehicle or a stationary object:
- Stop the vehicle immediately and turn on your hazard lights.
- Check for injuries.
- If necessary, call emergency services:
- Fire/Ambulance: 18 or 112
- Gendarmerie (police): +590 590 27 11 70
Even if the damage is only material, always make sure the area is safe for other drivers — especially on Saint Barth’s narrow roads.
3. Contact Dollar SBH Immediately
As soon as possible, call our team:
Dollar SBH Customer Service: +590 (0)690 40 77 00
We’re available 7 days a week to advise you and, if necessary, organize assistance on site, towing, or a vehicle replacement.
This first call helps us:
- Assess the situation remotely
- Initiate any necessary insurance procedures
- Quickly prepare a replacement vehicle, if needed
4. Fill Out an Accident Report if Another Vehicle is Involved
If another vehicle is involved in the incident, it’s essential to complete a European Accident Statement (constat amiable) — even for minor collisions.
Tips for filling it out properly:
- Be as precise as possible (drawings, facts, time, location, license plates, etc.)
- Both parties must sign the report
- Take photos of the damage and scene from multiple angles
- Do not admit fault on site — let insurance companies determine responsibility
If needed, our team can guide you by phone while you complete the report.
5. If the Damage Has No Third Party Involved: Document Everything
Did you find a scratch in a parking lot? Did a coconut fall on your windshield? Even if no one else is involved, it’s important to:
- Take multiple photos of the damage
- Photograph the surroundings
- Write down the date, time, and location
- Notify our agency immediately
This helps determine responsibility — and in some cases, a third party might still be liable (such as a hotel, municipality, or service provider).
6. Vehicle Towing or Replacement
If your vehicle is no longer drivable due to the damage, we’ll organize towing and/or replacement as soon as possible — depending on availability.
Thanks to Saint Barth’s small scale, our team can respond quickly, so you’re not stranded for long.
7. Insurance and Deductibles: How Does It Work?
Every car rented from Dollar SBH includes basic insurance coverage (third-party liability). However, in case of damage, a deductible may apply.
Our insurance options include:
- Standard insurance (included): covers material damage but with a deductible
- Partial deductible waiver: significantly lowers the amount you’re liable for
- Full deductible waiver: no charge in the event of damage (except in cases of negligence or exclusions, as outlined in your contract)
When you rent the vehicle, our team will explain these options in detail. If any incident occurs, we will review your case transparently, considering the nature of the event and the coverage selected.
8. Common Scenarios — and How to Handle Them
a) Minor Scratch on the Bodywork
If you notice a small scratch that may have gone unnoticed at pickup, let us know. If it’s superficial and doesn’t affect safety, it may be considered normal wear and tear depending on your rental agreement.
b) Windshield Chip or Crack
This is common under coconut trees or from flying gravel. If you spot a chip or crack, avoid driving too long and contact us. We’ll assess if the windshield needs replacing or repair.
c) Flat Tire
If you get a flat, park safely off the road. Most of our vehicles include a repair kit or spare tire. If not, we’ll send someone to assist or replace the tire.
d) Accident Involving a Scooter or Pedestrian
Rare, but always serious. Call emergency services immediately if someone is injured. Even in minor incidents, a formal report is required, and the case must be declared to our agency.
9. What Not to Do
- Don’t ignore the damage: Even small issues should be reported — documenting them protects you.
- Don’t attempt your own repairs: No paint touch-ups, glue, or polish without our approval.
- Don’t lie or cover it up: Dishonesty can impact your coverage and may lead to additional fees.
At Dollar SBH, we value transparency, communication, and fairness. Reporting damage early is always better than us discovering it at return.
10. Returning the Vehicle — What Happens?
When you return the vehicle, one of our agents will conduct a final inspection, comparing it to the initial condition noted at pickup.
If new damage is found:
- It will be documented with photos
- A report will be shared with you immediately
- We’ll explain the next steps, depending on your insurance coverage
In most cases, everything is handled on the same day, with clear communication and fair billing.
Conclusion: Damage Happens — And We’re Here to Help
Accidents happen, even to the most careful drivers. The key is to remain calm, contact the agency quickly, and follow the correct procedure.
At Dollar SBH, our priority is your peace of mind. Whether it’s a scratch, a tire issue, or something more serious, our 7-days-a-week support, professional service, and well-maintained fleet ensure that you’re never alone when things don’t go as planned.
You’re here to enjoy Saint Barthélemy — and even in the event of a hiccup, we’re here to make sure your trip continues smoothly.