When you are on vacation renting a car, you will most likely be asked if you want to purchase insurance for the car. Sometimes purchasing that insurance policy is needed, but other times you may already be covered with your own auto insurance policy. Some individuals even have insurance benefits through their credit cards.
Auto Insurance
Do you need to buy their rental car insurance coverage? Before going on vacation, reach out to your licensed agent with questions regarding your auto policy. An auto insurance policy can be unique to the driver. Many times, if you have collision, comprehensive and liability coverage on your auto policy, this would cover your rental car too as a temporary replacement vehicle. If you find you’re only covered for a specific amount, contact your credit card company to see if they can fill the gap.
Rental car insurance options can include: liability, personal accident, collision damage, personal effects coverage. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Liability: Insurance coverage if you damage another car, property and medical bills for the other party if you’re found liable for the accident.
Personal Accident: Coverage for accidental death, medical expenses and ambulatory costs of you and your household members in the vehicle.
Collision Damage: Coverage to repair the rental car in the event you are involved in an accident.
Personal Effects: Insurance that covers personal items lost or damaged such as cell phones, purses and computers.
Roadside Assistance: Coverage for roadside incidents such as lost keys, lockouts, fuel outages and flat tires.
Always check with your licensed agent to review your policy BEFORE going on your vacation to ensure you know what coverage options you may or may not need. Furthermore, be sure to understand the terms and conditions of the insurance policy you’re purchasing if you decide to buy coverage from the rental agency.
Knowing the details of your insurance policy can help you fully understand your coverage, give you peace of mind, as well as save you money.
Filer Insurance has been providing Washingtonians with great coverage and affordable pricing for their insurance for auto, home and businesses for over sixty years. We provide financial security and insurance protection to consumers and businesses throughout the Northwest. Our office locations are in Seattle, Ballard, Monroe and Arlington, and you can easily reach us by telephone or email. Because we’re an independent insurance agency, we offer insurance from the top insurance companies in Washington State.
