Does My Comprehensive Insurance Cover Rental Cars?

Comprehensive auto insurance coverage, also referred to as “other than collision” coverage in some states, covers damage to your vehicle that happens due to circumstances beyond your control, which can include things like theft, glass damage, and weather-related damage. Collision coverage is for all collision-related accidents, while comprehensive coverage covers (nearly) everything else. Since both of these coverages are optional, you may or may not have them on your policy. Furthermore, your comprehensive coverage may not cover rental cars, depending on the limits of coverage and your insurance provider.

Details of Your Policy

Some insurance companies include rental cars in standard auto insurance coverage, while others offer rental coverage as an additional feature or on specific types of policies. It varies significantly due to the assortment of types of car insurance San Diego drivers are able to purchase, so it’ll be up to you to learn about the coverage you have. If nothing else, give your insurance company a call before you buy the insurance offered at the rental counter. You might have at least some, if not all, the coverage you need already in place.

Common Incidents and Coverage Options

If your insurance provider or policy does have coverage for rental cars, your comprehensive insurance will typically cover theft of your rental car or damage caused by nature, fire, or other uncontrollable events. Your comprehensive coverage stops there, but you may have other options. Again, assuming your policy extends coverage to rental cars, you may also have other types of coverage for injuries, property damage, and other losses.

Reasons to Get Additional Coverage

Some people who have rental coverage on their existing auto policies still choose to buy additional insurance. There are a number of reasons for this:

• Car rental insurance has a much lower (or no) deductible. Your own policy probably has a deductible between $500 and $1,000 that needs to be paid before coverage kicks in. 
• You won’t have to worry about a rate increase. If you file a claim with the third-party rental insurance company, your insurance company won’t record the incident and potentially raise your rates as a result. 
• You can get additional coverage or fill the gaps missing in your existing auto insurance policy.

Insurance Options Offered by the Car Rental Service

At the rental counter, you can typically buy a few different kinds of insurance to protect the vehicle, your personal liability, and your personal effects. You can choose to add any or all of these to your rental, based on your existing coverage. Look at the coverage you already have and consider what would make you feel comfortable. If you need more protection, pay for it at the rental counter. Most of these policies only cost a few dollars a day, so it’s probably worth the investment.

Drivers who are searching for reliable, affordable auto insurance should reach out to the experienced professionals at Altra Insurance Services. In addition to auto coverage, we offer a variety of insurance products, including business, homeowners, and motorcycle insurance San Diego, residents can call one of our friendly agents today at 619-474-6666 for a free quote.