Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Florida

Based on your question, I am assuming that the rental car was rented under your name and under your auto insurance. Does your ex-friend also have automobile insurance? If so, you can make a claim on his auto insurance. Did you purchase the rental company's insurnace? If not, you would need to make a claim with your auto insurance. Ultimately, if you rented the car and had possession of the keys to it, you are responsible for it. If the friend did not have permission, how did he get the car keys? Feel free to contact me to discuss.

You cannot get the rental company off your back. You are liable to them for the car. Your friend is liable to you. If he has no insurance, you may be out of luck. If he really stole the car, the rental car company may require you to involve the police. Do you want him arrested for stealing the car?

You are responsible to the rental car company. They do not have to go after your friend because they can hold you 100% responsible. You, in turn, can hold your friend responsible. Check if your friend has auto insurance, and contact your auto insurance company as well.

You are responsible and should contact your insurance company.