How to Buy Rental Car Insurance

One of the most important considerations when renting a car is the matter of how you will pay for repairs if the car is damaged. Rental car insurance can provide protection for the vehicle, but there are many options available for rental car insurance. Each option provides an array of coverage and might have stipulations on how or when the coverage can be used.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Before you accept the rental company's insurance options, review your existing policy. Speak to someone at your insurance carrier. Many insurance carriers will cover rental car damages if you have certain coverages in force. These coverages might include comprehensive, collision and rental vehicle coverage. Your agent or carrier representative will be able to provide you with the specifics.

2. Review your credit card options. Some credit cards offer car rental insurance as an endorsement or courtesy. Some cards even offer automatic coverage if you have used the card to rent the vehicle. These coverage options are specific to the credit card. Speak with your credit card representative to obtain the specifics on any available options.

3. Motorist clubs and memberships options might also be available. Many motorist clubs and memberships provide rental car insurance to their members as a standard feature. These programs might also provide roadside assistance, rental car discounts and other types of benefits. If you are a member, review your membership benefits or contact your organization for specifics. If you are not a member, you might consider joining a membership to make those additional benefits available to you.

4. Speak with your rental car agent about coverage options. Many rental car agencies provide an array of protection for the vehicle as well as the driver. The representative can provide you with a quote on the daily coverage amount, its specifics and contingencies that might apply. At the time of your rental transaction, you will be required to choose or reject the available coverage. If you choose to reject the coverage, you will be required to sign a formal notice of your rejection.

5. Once you have reviewed your options, select the option that provides you with the most protection and meets your needs. You can use a combination of choices if available. Even though purchasing the rental agency's insurance might be the most beneficial for you, you might consider rejecting the roadside assistance coverage if you have a roadside membership. If you choose to use your credit card's coverage, you might also complement it with a roadside membership. Choose the options that best fit your travel plans, vehicle use and needs.

References

• The Basics of Rental Car Insurance