When planning your next trip with a rental car be prepared for the rental agency to request that you purchase insurance on that rental car. There are several reasons why rental insurance should be purchased and several why you may not need to purchase it. It is not always necessary to have automobile insurance in every state. However, in states like Oregon and Washington it is the law to carry automobile insurance even if that automobile is a rental car or not.
If the traveler already owns an automobile with full coverage insurance then it is a good idea to call that company. Most auto insurance policies will cover a rental vehicle under the policy limits. The policy limits and deductibles usually remain the same on the rental vehicle as they do on the personal vehicle.
If in fact the insurance carrier states that they will cover the rental vehicle then take along a copy of your policy to show the rental agency that there will in fact be coverage on the rental car.
If there is no personal insurance coverage then it is a good idea to take the rental agencies coverage policy. The cost of this insurance premium for the rental period that you have the vehicle is actually quite reasonable at most rental car agencies. The policy premium for the time of use is not refundable if there is no use of the coverage while you are renting the vehicle. However, the safety of having the coverage is important.
It is the rental agencies policy to have you sign a release if you choose not to take their coverage; after all it is the condition of the returned automobile that is the main concern of the agency. Remember if you turn down the rental agencies insurance policy and an accident occurs the driver/renter will be responsible not only for the repair of the rental car but any other auto involved in the accident. The renter will also be responsible for all medical bills if there are any injuries in that accident.
Another thing to remember is to read the policy from the rental agency. It may only cover the vehicle and it’s damage and have no medical coverage in case of an accident. However if you choose to use the family policy then all medical coverage goes into play.
Most persons who rent automobiles are thinking of cost when renting. The best way to be able to afford the rental car insurance coverage is to be sure to choose the best rental price possible. Many automobile rental agencies have specials such as Enterprise has a program where it is a flat $150.00 for 5 – 7 days of automobile rental. If you are a member of AARP or AAA then there are several places like Hertz and Budget Rental that will give discounts on the rental cost, not the insurance premiums but the total cost of the rental period for the automobile. Usually around 3% to 5% savings can be found.
It is a good idea to call around and not only get the best prices but the best insurance coverage for the rental automobile you will be using during your trip.
