10 Surprising Things Rental Car Insurance Actually Covers

10 Surprising Things Rental Car Insurance Actually Covers

• 1. What Is Rental Car Insurance?
• 2. Damage Repair to the Vehicle
• 3. Theft Protection and Recovery
• 4. Medical Expenses Coverage
• 5. Personal Accident Coverage
• 6. Third-Party Liability Protection
• 7. Loss of Use Fees
• 8. Roadside Assistance
• 9. Damage to Other Property
• 10. Coverage for Windshield Damage

1. What Is Rental Car Insurance?

Rental car insurance is a type of protection you can purchase when renting a vehicle to safeguard yourself against the costs of damage, theft, or accidents that may occur during the rental period. However, not all rental car insurance policies are the same, and there are various types of coverage to consider. Knowing what’s covered and what’s not can help you make informed decisions when renting a car.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

ClevelandCuyahoga CountyOhio

1986 Stokes Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA

2. Damage Repair to the Vehicle

One of the most common reasons people buy rental car insurance is for damage coverage. If the rental car gets damaged while in your possession, the insurance typically covers the cost of repairs. This can include damages caused by an accident, a collision, or even minor mishaps like scrapes or dents. However, this doesn’t include damages caused by reckless driving or intentional destruction.

Hertz Entertainment Services New York

Queens CountyNew York

39-15 29th St, Astoria, NY 11101, USA

3. Theft Protection and Recovery

In some cases, rental car insurance also covers theft protection. If the rental car is stolen during your rental period, you may be protected under the insurance policy. This coverage may help with the recovery process and may cover the full value of the vehicle if it’s not recovered. Always check with your rental company to see what specific theft protection they offer.

4. Medical Expenses Coverage

Some rental car insurance policies include medical expenses coverage. This provides you with financial protection if you or your passengers are injured in an accident while driving the rental car. Depending on the insurance, this can cover medical bills, hospitalization, and emergency medical transportation.

5. Personal Accident Coverage

Personal accident insurance can also be added to your rental car policy. This typically covers medical bills for injuries sustained by you or your passengers in a rental car accident. In some cases, it may also provide accidental death coverage, offering financial support to your loved ones in the event of a fatal accident.

6. Third-Party Liability Protection

Third-party liability insurance is an essential aspect of rental car insurance. If you cause an accident while driving the rental car and another person is injured or their property is damaged, third-party liability insurance can help cover the costs. This type of coverage is typically included in most rental agreements, but it’s important to confirm the limits and whether it’s included before renting the car.

7. Loss of Use Fees

When a rental car is damaged or involved in an accident, the rental agency may not be able to rent the car out to another customer. Loss of use fees help cover the rental company’s potential lost income while the vehicle is being repaired. While this charge may seem unusual, it’s typically covered under the rental insurance you purchase, saving you from paying out-of-pocket for these fees.

8. Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance coverage can be an invaluable addition to your rental car insurance. It provides support in case of a breakdown, flat tire, battery failure, or even if you run out of gas. Roadside assistance coverage can include services such as towing, lockout assistance, and tire changes. Many rental car agencies offer this coverage as an optional extra, but it’s worth considering for peace of mind.

9. Damage to Other Property

In addition to covering damage to the rental vehicle itself, some insurance policies also cover damage to other property. For instance, if you crash into a fence, building, or another car, your rental insurance may cover the cost of repairs to those objects. This coverage can help protect you from paying out-of-pocket for property damage caused by an accident.

10. Coverage for Windshield Damage

Windshield damage is a common issue that rental car customers face, especially in areas with lots of debris or gravel roads. Some rental car insurance policies offer coverage for windshield damage, either as part of the overall damage protection or as an add-on coverage option. This is especially important if you’re driving in areas where the likelihood of windshield damage is higher.

Overall, rental car insurance is designed to give you peace of mind while you're driving a rental vehicle. By understanding the various coverage options available to you, you can choose the right level of protection that fits your needs and ensures that you’re not caught off guard in case of an emergency.