Car Insurance for Rental Vehicles
Posted on by Kate
When at the car rental counter, one thing many people have trouble deciding on is whether they need to purchase the rental company’s insurance policy. Some people choose the wrong type of auto insurance coverage, while others choose a policy that is just more than what they need. The majority of times people purchase coverage plan that they already have, but don’t already know it. You should always decide on rental car insurance prior to visiting the rental desks, because the rental company agents will always try to influence you into purchasing it.
You should be knowledgeable about rental car coverage prior to renting a vehicle, so you are not pressured during the buying process. The types of rental coverage may sometimes depend on the age of the renter. Most companies have limits on the age of rental, such as twenty-one or twenty-five. All car rental companies will require a driver’s license and credit card under the same name. If you don’t have a credit card under your name, you will not be able to rent the vehicle.
What people do not know is that sometimes you may not even need to purchase insurance from the rental company. Prior to renting, you should look over your current insurance plan. The auto insurance policy you have now might include coverage for vehicles that you drive, but don’t own. Some insurance companies may cover it under rental car insurance or under vehicles that you don’t own. If you are not sure about whether your current insurance policy covers rental cars, you should get in touch with a representative. The type of car insurance policy you have will affect the coverage you move onto the rental vehicle. If the policy you have now does not cover stolen vehicles, than the same will apply to the rental vehicle. For those who have a fully comprehensive policy, this is not a problem.
You may or may not be aware, but some credit cards offer insurance for rental vehicles. The coverage will only apply if you charge the rental on this card. The coverage usually includes any damage you cause to the car, and if the car is stolen while you are responsible for it. If you cause damage to another vehicle, your credit card will not cover the expenses. Several high-end credit card companies will offer more coverage, such as liability, etc. Again, if anything is not clear with your credit card coverage, you should call and get the exact details. If you do plan on using the coverage from your credit card, you should keep a copy of your coverage at all times.
The last option is to purchase insurance coverage from the rental company itself. The cost of insurance will vary from company to company, and the type of coverage can be chosen by you. You can opt for the full coverage, which leaves you with no responsibility. Other coverage options will cover lost keys, towing, hotel fees in case of a car breakdown, roadside assistance, etc.
