Renting a car is the most convenient way to tour a new place at your own time. You can drive yourself and your family or friends and visit areas you prefer instead of limiting yourself to only a number of places if you join a tour group.
But to those who would like to opt for this, getting the right car rental insurance is a must. Sometimes, it may not be enough to have your own car insurance coverage. If this is the cause, it would be a good idea to contact your provider to find out exactly what your insurance covers.
Limitations of Your Car Insurance
Your own car insurance policy may be used when renting a car. Normally, most coverage by private providers extends to the rental car when you’re utilizing it. To be sure, though, it would be best to seek advice from your insurance agency.
A collision coverage would suffice as well. This type of coverage pays for damages incurred by your vehicle resulting from accidents involving objects or other cars. If you don’t have this, getting a rental car insurance is your best option.
Protection from Credit Card Company
Find out as well if your credit card company provides insurance coverage for rental cars. This is usually possible notably if you use the card to pay for renting the vehicle and you pay the full fee right away. In addition, you have to turn down the collision waiver being offered by the rental company and agree to be the primary renter of the vehicle.
Do take note, however, that some major credit card companies only offer a rental auto insurance to their elite members with certain conditions attached. This means that regular members in the lower levels may not be able to avail of this.
Additional Insurance Coverage
Buying an insurance coverage from the rental company is also beneficial. This will help the renter pay for unexpected expenses in case of car damage or theft. Coverage to consider are the collision damage waiver, liability insurance and personal accident insurance.
The collision damage waiver can be bought at an average of $19 per day. In this type of coverage, liability for collision damage can be transferred to the car rental company.
Liability insurance is cheaper at a rate ranging from $7 to $14 but it can provide protection for up to $1 million. Normally, though, this is already included in a personal auto insurance.
A personal accident insurance is worth buying if you want to ensure you have enough medical coverage. This can cost from as low as $1 per day to $5 per day.
Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Unaware to some of you, a homeowner’s policy can extend its liability coverage even outside of the home and this includes cases when the policyholder rents a car. Do make it a point to check with your provider first as provisions may vary.
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About the guest author:
Sara Wells is a blogger who writes on behalf of companies such as car rental brand Protectyourbubble.com ID theft provider.
Originally posted on October 17, 2013 @ 4:41 am