Intel: Rules of Rental Car Insurance
Highlights of the fine print.
This week, we're all about avoiding disasters and mitigating trouble. Rental car insurance can be helpful in that regard.
Your Car Insurance: Check your existing personal car insurance policy. Some may cover you for rental, but most don't, which is why you'll need supplemental coverage elsewhere.
Credit Card Coverage: Some premium cards, such as American Express's Platinum, offer good rental car insurance coverage. But, take the time to read the fine print. In order to be covered, you must reserve the car and pay for it with that specific credit card. But there are exceptions to their coverage: large vans, specialty vehicles, sports cars, and moving trucks are often omitted from the policy. And renting/driving in certain countries is not covered, most notably: Jamaica, Ireland, Italy, Australia, and New Zealand. If you fall into any of these categories, it is best to buy additional insurance coverage directly from the rental agency. (Advice well taken, as told in our On Location - New Zealand story from this edition).
Types of Coverage: You might be presented with 3 separate options for coverage. Coverage of damages to the rental vehicle itself, Coverage for your and your passenger's health / injuries, and Coverage of a third party (the other vehicle involved). For the latter, in many EU countries, that liability is covered universally so you don't need to pay for separate coverage (but always double check).
Document the Vehicle Condition: Before you drive off the lot, fully inspect and take a video/photos of your rental vehicle. Photograph the gas gauge and odometer. You may recall us telling how strict the Portuguese are when you return the vehicle, often fining customers for scratches they may or may not have caused. This is especially true if you have not purchased insurance directly from the rental agency. It's always good to have extra imagery for your own insurance and peace of mind.
Call the Police: If you do get into an accident while in a rental car, you'll need a police report to document the incident and help support your claim.
Photo Credit: Nomoon
In each publication, Syllogi will share various tips, resources, and other odd bits of helpful information we have happened across in our research.
