Whether travelling around a country on a road trip or simply needing a rental car for a work trip, you must find car insurance that’s within your budget and covers everything you need. As you are at the rental car counter, they ask whether you want to purchase insurance. See how much they want to charge you and how it compares to what you’ve seen online. This post will give you a brief guide to rental car insurance and the dos and don’ts.
Purchase your rental insurance online.
Many people don’t realise you can purchase rental insurance online from a third-party site. If you compare car insurance rates online, you can see what each insurer covers and how much excess you will have to pay if you have an accident (a standard type insurers may offer is called ‘car hire excess insurance’). Many types of rental car insurance will include personal effects coverage, personal accident insurance, liability and a collision/loss damage waiver. If you travel around a country you aren’t familiar with, purchasing rental car insurance will give you the peace of mind you need.
Do you need one?
Keep in mind that you may not necessarily have to buy rental insurance. This doesn't imply that you should go without protection – the future is uncertain, and it's best not to take any chances. However, if your existing insurance policy provides coverage, you may not need to acquire rental car insurance.
This isn’t guaranteed, but if you have liability insurance covered under your policy, you can usually use this on your rental car. Some insurance policies include a collision waiver and comprehensive cover, which you can transfer to your rental car. One thing to think about, if this is included in your current insurance, is that the rental car company might still charge you if you cause damage or lose one of their vehicles whilst you are on the trip, so it is essential to check if this is the case beforehand.
Similarly, your car insurance won’t cover you if you use the rental car for business purposes. You will have to take out a separate type of insurance. Many car insurance policies also might not cover you abroad, so these are all things you should check before relying on your existing policy.
Check the hidden fees.
When considering rental car insurance, it is crucial to delve deep into the details to ensure you are fully informed before making a decision. Beyond just looking out for hidden fees, it is essential to understand the specific terms and conditions of the policy. For instance, inquire whether the rental company operates on a full-to-empty petrol policy, which can significantly impact your overall costs. Additionally, understanding the extent of coverage provided by the insurance is vital to avoid any surprises in case of an unforeseen event.
Thorough research is key to avoiding being taken advantage of. By taking the time to explore different insurance options and compare their offerings, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and budget. It is advisable not to leave this task until the last minute, such as when you are already at the rental counter, as you may feel rushed into a decision. Instead, equip yourself with knowledge beforehand to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Rental car insurance can sometimes be a significant additional expense, so you must feel confident that you are securing the most favourable deal available. By being proactive and diligent in selecting insurance, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you are adequately protected without overspending.
Comments