Thursday, July 10, 2008

Do you really need the Collision Damage Waiver

Every time I rent a car, I get the same question from the clerk at the counter, " Sir, (I get called Sir now, sure sign I'm close to getting my AARP card) would you like the collision damage waiver.  If you get it, it pays ..........."  Politely, I always tell the clerk, "No thank you, my insurance policy covers the use of a rental car."  Occasionally, when I am at the airport with a friend, that is an insurance agent, I hear a loud shriek, "NOOOOOOO!!!!! He doesn't need it!!!"  Personally, I prefer a simple "No Thank You."

The bottom line is that your auto policy does cover rental cars.  In addition, some credit cards provide this coverage if you book your travel through them.  Call your credit card company to find out. That general statement being made there are some caveats that you should keep in mind:

1. If you are renting a moving truck, some companies will cover small trucks but not large trucks. You can save yourself a lot of heartache by making a quick call to your insurance agent.

2. You may not have coverage if you are in a foreign country. If you are traveling outside the United States, (Yes, that means to Canada and Mexico) let your agent know to assure you have coverage in place.

Later, 

Rod

Nothing in this Blog should be considered legal advice or to form an attorney client relationship. If you have a legal problem you are encouraged to consult with an attorney who can provide you with advice tailored to your legal circumstance. 

Making Injury and Insurance Law Understandable