Should I Get Rental Car Insurance?

Here’s what you need to know about getting rental car insurance.

When it comes time to rent a car, the rental agency will ask you if you would like to purchase rental car insurance.  For many drivers, this can be a conflicting question.  However, understanding what rental car insurance covers and understanding your own personal auto insurance in Carrollton, Texas can help you make an informed decision.  Here’s what you need to know about rental car insurance. 

What Types of Rental Car Insurance Are Available?

Generally, car rental agencies will offer you four types of insurance options:

  • Collision Damage Waiver– This type is insurance will ensure that the rental company will not hold you financially responsible if the car you have rented is damaged or stolen.
  • Supplemental Liability Protection– If you get into an accident, then purchasing this type of insurance will ensure that you are covered for the damages and injuries you might have caused to another party.
  • Personal Accident Coverage– This type of coverage will cover your injuries or death, or the injuries or death of the passengers in your rental car.
  • Personal Effects Coverage– This type of coverage will reimburse your for any personal items that are stolen out of your rental car.

What Types of Coverage Does My Personal Auto Policy Offer?

It’s likely that your existing auto policy already offers some level of coverage for rental cars.  Generally, a standard auto policy will offer liability coverage and some policies might even offer collision, comprehensive, and medical payments insurance that applies to rentals.  However, policies differ from driver to driver, so it’s important that you understand the specifics of your coverage.  Make sure that you contact your insurance provider prior to renting a car so you can discuss what coverages you might already have.  Once you understand what your policy covers, you can decide if you need supplemental insurance through the rental car company.

Ultimately, whether or not you need to purchase rental car insurance will depend on your personal auto policy and your own willingness to accept risk.  Do you have questions regarding your auto insurance in Carrollton, Texas?  Then turn to the professionals at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency.  Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.  Contact us to gets started today.