It is important for you to read and understand the terms and conditions of the rental agreement. The rental agreement may include more than one page. Terms and conditions are normally found on the back of the rental agreement, and there may be additional addendums.
The renter is responsible for damage or loss to the vehicle regardless of fault. Although we work with the insurance companies, credit card companies and at fault parties to get the claim settled, the renter is still responsible for any unpaid damages.
It is your responsibility as the renter per your rental agreement to make sure there is no existing damage prior to leaving the premises. When vehicle is returned, it is your responsibility to inspect for damages whether or not there is a staff member available to inspect. You are responsible for any new damages found until a staff member has inspected the vehicle.
Most travelers who rent vehicles never take the time to read the fine print about insurance options. Needed coverage is often missed or forgotten, or extra or duplicate coverage purchased.
Here's a quick reminder of the usual options for rental vehicle insurance and some advice about what to check to make your decision.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) If a rental car is damaged, the renter may be responsible for the first several hundred dollars of damage (the deductible) up to the full price of the car. By purchasing CDW (also known as Loss Damage Waiver or LDW), the renter is released from responsibility of any loss or damage to a vehicle up to the full value of the car. However, if the renter is in violation of the rental agreement, the waiver is void. Your personal auto insurance may already provide coverage for damage to rental cars and the purchase of CDW or LDW may not be necessary. Regulations for selling CDW/LDW vary from state to state.
CDW/LDW is usually an optional feature, however, a few companies require renters to purchase this waiver. Determine whether or not you need CDW/LDW before you arrive at the rental counter (check your own automobile insurance policy) and consider how much this CDW/LDW may increase the daily rental rate (CDW/LDW costs range from $8 - $12 per day). In some cases, you may find a special rate for a larger car which already includes CDW/LDW. In the long run, the larger car may be less expensive than the economy car with additional CDW/LDW costs.
Also, some credit card companies offer CDW/LDW insurance as a card holder benefit. Be sure to read the fine print on these agreements (as well as on car rental agreements!) Usually the protection afforded by credit card companies could be supplemental to your own insurance. Therefore, if you get in an accident, your own insurance will cover the repair costs up to its maximum and then the credit card company will cover the difference. As a result, your own car insurance rates may be affected.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) Personal Accident Insurance provides accidental death and medical coverage for the renter and additional passengers during the time they are riding or driving with you. Check your personal car insurance policy to see if it covers car rentals. If your policy covers car rentals, you may not need PAI. This insurance is usually optional.
Additional Liability Insurance (ALI) ALI is an optional insurance that protects the renter and other authorized operators against claims made by third parties for bodily injury/death and property damage caused by the use or operation of the rental vehicle. Check with your own auto insurance policy to determine whether additional excess coverage is already provided.
Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
This coverage provides protection against loss or theft of personal belongings from the rental car. Once again, check your own auto insurance policy to determine whether your coverage includes rental cars.*
Source: American Society of Travel Agents
Use common sense and do not invite trouble. When parking your car, do not leave your valuables (camera, purse, etc.) unattended and in open view in your car or when on the beach. Rental cars at scenic lookouts and popular beach parks are quick and easy hits to those looking to snatch currency or credit cards or gear to flip into fast cash.
When parking in a parking lot, be sure and park away from other vehicles and shopping carts.
Physical Damage
Vehicle is damaged, destoyed or lost through fire, theft, vandalism, malicious mischief, collision, or acts of god.
Loss of Use
The inability to use an automobile due to damage to the vehicle.
Examples: compensation for each day a car is out of commission during repairs.
Diminution of Value
This is the loss of a vehicle's market value due to accident/incident damage or related repair.
Most credit card claims can be filed online thru their website, but it is also a good idea to contact them and report the claim. Some credit card companies require that you contact them within 45 days of the loss. Click on the link above of the credit card you used to rent the vehicle with to visit their claim center.