Whether you’re thinking about renting a car for work or for a family trip, one thing is for sure: car rental insurance is something you have to think about.
When it comes to car rental insurance, it’s easy to get confused with so many letters that don’t seem to mean anything at first glance. LDW, CDW, EP, LP, SLI, what’s all that?
Don’t worry, we are here to break it down for you! So, next time you’re renting a car, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about your coverage with confidence.
What are the types of car rental insurance?
There are basically four types of car rental insurance: the ones that protect the rental car, third party insurances, personal insurances and roadside assistance. Here’s a list:
CDW – Collision Damage Waiver
LDW – Loss Damage Waiver
CDI – Collision Damage Insurance
EP – Extended Protection
LP – Liability Protection
SLI – Supplemental Liability Insurance
TPL – Third Party Liability
ALI – Additional Liability Insurance
PAI – Personal Accident Insurance
PEC – Personal Effects Coverage
Roadside assistance
RSP – Roadside Plus
The reason for so many alternatives is that different rental companies have different names for the same types of insurance, and the options can vary depending on the country where you’re renting.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or Collision Damage Insurance (CDI) all cover damages to the rental car, including theft and scratches caused by accidents. However, the specific coverage may vary depending on the rental company.
In case of any damage to the rental car, the renter is typically responsible for the repair costs. The amount depends on the type of damage waiver, the car rental company, the car category, and other factors. So, make sure to review your rental agreement to understand the specific terms and conditions.
In some cases, the CDW and the LDW can cover the full cost of repair work, meaning you won’t have to pay any extras even if an accident happens. This is especially beneficial when traveling abroad, where repair costs can be significantly higher.
While it’s not common to rent a car without any insurance, it is technically possible. In that case, the entire cost of repairing any damage to the car will be the responsibility of the renter.
That’s why we wrote a comprehensive blog post about the Collision Damage Waiver, so don’t forget to check it out!
Supplemental Liability Insurance
Supplemental Liability Insurance is a third-party insurance, and there are many names to refer to them. Here are some examples:
EP – Extended Protection
LP – Liability Protection
SLI – Supplemental Liability Insurance
TPL – Third Party Liability
ALI – Additional Liability Insurance
All insurances listed above cover personal and material damage caused to other people’s cars, property and even medical expenses. Coverage limits may vary by rental company, so be sure to review the details carefully!
Similar to the Collision Damage Waiver and Loss Damage Waiver, third-party insurance is also an optional coverage.
Read more about third-party insurance.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Personal Accident Insurance provides coverage to the renter and passengers in case of accidental death, need of medical care and ambulance services during the rental period.
Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
Personal Effects Coverage safeguards your valuables and personal belongings against damage or loss while they are inside the rental car, whether in transit or parked at a location other than your residence. This coverage extends to the renter, their immediate family members, and any authorized passengers.
Roadside Assistance and Roadside Plus
Roadside Assistance and Roadside Plus (RSP) are optional services that can be purchased when renting a car. They are not insurances, but rather an extra layer of protection in case of a roadside emergency.
Roadside Assistance typically includes the following services:
- Towing
- Jump start
- Flat tire service
- Lockout assistance
- Fuel delivery
RSP typically includes all of the above services, as well as additional benefits such as:
- Reimbursement for emergency roadside expenses
- Lost key replacement
- Travel assistance
Whether or not to purchase Roadside Assistance or RSP is a personal decision. However, it is important to note that these services can be very helpful in case of an emergency, especially if you are traveling in an unfamiliar area.
RentalCover
RentalCover is different from all options seen so far, and it works on a refund system. All costs from repairing the car, for example, are paid by the renter and later on refunded by RentalCover.
On average, RentalCover takes 3 to 5 business days to approve the refund.
If you want to know what the best option is for you, we’ve prepared some amazing content about RentalCover.
Do you really need extra insurance when renting a car?
Some people might be hesitant to purchase car rental insurance, either due to cost concerns or a lack of understanding of its benefits.
Car rental insurance is truly something we never wish to use, but it does ease our minds when renting a car, driving abroad and even parking on the street. When considering whether or not to hire insurance, always consider where you’re going to be driving the car and in which circumstances.
When do you need rental car insurance?
Getting rental car insurance is a smart move, especially when you find yourself in unfamiliar driving territory. This extra layer of protection can save you from unexpected financial headaches in case of accidents, theft, or other unforeseen incidents.
Here are some scenarios where rental car insurance becomes a prudent choice:
- Driving Abroad: If you’re exploring a foreign land with unfamiliar traffic laws and customs.
- Luxury or Specialty Vehicles: When you opt for a high-end or unique rental car.
- Group Travel: Traveling in larger groups and/or with valuable belongings.
- Riskier Locations: In areas known for higher crime rates or challenging road conditions.
- Business Trips: When your car rental is business-related.
Even if you have your own car insurance, don’t assume it automatically covers your rental. Personal policies often have deductibles and exclusions that can leave you with significant financial responsibilities in an accident.
Rental car insurance is budget-friendly, particularly when you weigh it against the potential cost of repairing or replacing a rental vehicle. For peace of mind and financial protection, consider securing rental car insurance before embarking on your rental adventure.
What happens if you damage a rental car without insurance?
If you’re planning to rent a car in the US, it’s crucial to understand the financial risks of driving without insurance. You could be on the hook for significant repair costs, towing, a replacement car, LDW fee (non-refundable), and a processing fee. If you fail to pay for the damages, legal action may be taken against you. Don’t let the consequences of driving an uninsured rental car derail your travel plans, stay informed and covered!
What type of car rental insurance do I need?
With all the options available, you might wonder, “What type of car rental insurance do I need?” It’s a valid concern! Consider collision damage waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) to cover damage costs. Additionally, liability insurance is essential for third-party injuries or damages. Carefully review your existing coverage and rental agreements to make an informed choice to ensure a worry-free rental experience.
How much is the rental car insurance?
Car rental insurance cost
Rental car insurance costs vary depending on factors like the car type (luxury cars cost more), rental duration (longer rentals mean higher costs), and location (higher rates in riskier areas). On average, it ranges from $10 to $60 per day.
Is rental car insurance worth the investment?
While not the most exciting part of your trip, rental car insurance is a small saveguard that can save you from a world of financial trouble and stress in case of an accident. Whether you’re cruising in a luxury car, navigating foreign roads, or carpooling with a bunch of friends, rental car insurance serves as your safety net.
Here’s why it’s a smart investment:
- It’s budget-friendly.
- It shields you from hefty financial burdens.
- It brings peace of mind.
What is the best car rental insurance?
Finding the perfect car rental insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. It’s like selecting the perfect outfit, tailored to your unique needs and situation. Several factors come into play when making this choice.
Firstly, think about the car you’re renting. Is it a sporty compact or a family-sized SUV? The type of vehicle affects your insurance needs.
Next, consider how long you’ll be cruising in your rental. A weekend getaway or a month-long adventure? The duration of your rental matters.
Also, think about where you’ll be exploring. Different countries have unique rules and regulations, so your location plays a part in the insurance puzzle.
Finally, don’t forget your budget. Your wallet’s comfort zone is a crucial factor!
Once you’ve pondered all these aspects, it’s time to compare insurance options. Dive into the nitty-gritty of each policy – that’s where you’ll discover what’s included and what’s not. A bit ofresearch goes a long way to ensure you’re adequately covered.
Whatever your choice, Rentcars offers the best options for rental car insurance. You can select it directly on the website or app, and the best part is, you can get exclusive discounts, compare prices, and enjoy various other benefits!
To compare over 300 rental companies in one place, head over to Rentcars and check out some amazing deals! Just type in your destination below and start saving!
