Car search information - Find out here what to do when you want to rent a car
This article gives some basic tips for when those times you need to rent a car.
Car Rental Guidelines
Jeff Anderson
Rates for the same-size car can vary widely from company to company with extra costs nearly doubling the basic rental rate. Ask the reservation clerk to calculate the total cost of the rental, including such extras as mileage, insurance, taxes (including airport taxes if the pick-up point is at the airport) and any other charges. Get everything in writing and make sure you have a confirmation numbers. If you plan on extensive driving, get the unlimited mileage rate and watch for extra
driver fees, unnecessary insurance coverage, etc.
Ask about special deals. If you're a member of AA, a travel club, a group or association, discounts might be available.
Insurance can cost from $5 to $15 a day. Review your car insurance policy. You might already be covered for a rental car. Some credit card companies offer free coverage to Gold Card holders.
Before picking up the car, make a brief visual inspection for nicks, dents, scratches, etc. If you don't spot them before you drive off, you may be responsible when the car is turned in.
When renting a car, you'll need a valid driver's license, proof of auto insurance and a major credit card. Some companies have a minimum age requirement.
Jeff Anderson knows his rentals. He knows what to look for and what pitfalls to avoid. Let him guide you to finding out more about rentals. Contact him at Jeff@davidson-rentals.com
Should I Buy Rental Car Insurance?
Tim Register
Rental car agencies have a menu of insurance policies they would like to sell you. While each policy could be of some benefit under the right circumstances, you should review each plan (its provisions, limitations, and exclusions) before making a purchase. It is a good idea to request the detailed information from an agent at the rental office, as most companies only provide a summary on their Web sites.
Keep in mind; you may not need to buy this additional car insurance because you have auto insurance from your own car insurance company. Generally speaking, when you rent a car, the
liability coverage limits you have in your own auto insurance policy remain in effect with the same limits. In addition, the comprehensive and collision coverages you have in your own auto
insurance policy remain in effect with the same deductibles. You do have comprehensive and collision coverage don't you? See our article, "How Much Car Insurance Should You Buy?" for a listing
of coverage types and definitions.
You may also have some kind of additional auto insurance coverage through your credit card but it is important that you check your credit card information for specific details. Some cards only
offer coverage if you rent your car from a particular agency. Some limit the days for which coverage is available. Some will only provide coverage for certain types and/or classes of cars.
With some cards, the coverage is not automatic and you must enroll in a program to get coverage. Some cards that advertise automatic rental insurance really only reimburse you for the deductible that you would have to pay under your regular insurance policy. Still others may provide only collision and
comprehensive coverage, leaving you exposed for personal injury or property damage to others. Rental car agencies typically offer liability coverage in two parts - a supplemental liability policy
protects against claims from others and a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) covers the rental car. LDW is not technically insurance; rather, it is a company's agreement not to hold the consumer liable for loss from all or part of any damage to merchandise.
Before you rent a vehicle, realize the charges you could be responsible for and how these charges are covered or not covered by both your own auto insurance policy and the car insurance the
rental company is offering.
If you suffer a loss that is not covered under your auto policy, check your other insurance policies. For example, if personal property has been stolen from your rental car, it may be covered under your homeowners or renters policy. Similarly, certain medical policies may cover costs of injuries not covered by your car insurance policy.
As always, check with your insurance company to find out exactly what is covered under your own auto insurance policy.
Remember, for quick quotes and the easiest way to buy car insurance on-line or over the phone, visit us at http://www.carinsurance.com
Tim Register is a representative of CarInsurance.com. You can visit CarInsurance.com at http://www.carinsurance.com or contact them at 1-877-327-8728.
CarInsurance.com's online insurance marketplace gives an opportunity to consumers and to insurance companies. We offer the ability to shop for car insurance online.
Consumers can receive quotes from many insurance companies, in some states you are able to purchase your insurance instantly, online. You don't have to drive your car to buy car insurance.
Buy online...anytime!
Click here for
car insurance quotes
car search information
|
