Car Rental Insurance at USA Airports
Whether you’re travelling to the United States for business or pleasure, you may need to rent a car. Before you rent a car, it’s important to understand the car rental insurance options available to you. Here is a guide to help you understand the different types of car rental insurance offered at US airports.
What is Car Rental Insurance?
Car rental insurance is a type of coverage that is designed to protect you from financial losses in the event of an accident or other unexpected event. It is usually offered by the car rental company and covers damages to the car, as well as any medical bills or other expenses that may arise. Depending on the policy, it may also cover additional costs such as towing, loss of use, and more.
Types of Car Rental Insurance
The types of car rental insurance available at US airports will vary depending on the car rental company. Generally, there are four types of coverage available:
- Liability Insurance: This type of coverage is typically required by law and covers damages to other people or property in the event of an accident. It does not cover damages to the rental car.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This type of coverage covers damages to the rental car, but not to other people or property. It is usually offered by the car rental company for an additional fee.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): This type of coverage covers medical expenses in the event of an accident. It is usually offered by the car rental company for an additional fee.
- Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): This type of coverage covers the loss or damage of personal items in the rental car. It is usually offered by the car rental company for an additional fee.
How to Choose Car Rental Insurance
When choosing car rental insurance, it’s important to consider your personal needs. If you already have car insurance, it may cover rental cars. It’s also important to consider the rental company’s policy and any additional fees. It’s best to read the rental agreement carefully and ask questions if you’re not sure about something.
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance is typically required by law and covers damages to other people or property in the event of an accident. It does not cover damages to the rental car. In some states, the rental company may require you to purchase additional liability insurance.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Collision damage waiver (CDW) is an optional type of coverage that covers damages to the rental car, but not to other people or property. It is usually offered by the car rental company for an additional fee. It’s important to note that CDW does not cover any personal items that may be inside the rental car.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Personal accident insurance (PAI) is an optional type of coverage that covers medical expenses in the event of an accident. It is usually offered by the car rental company for an additional fee. It’s important to note that PAI does not cover any property damage.
Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
Personal effects coverage (PEC) is an optional type of coverage that covers the loss or damage of personal items in the rental car. It is usually offered by the car rental company for an additional fee. It’s important to note that PEC does not cover any property damage.
Conclusion
When renting a car at a US airport, it’s important to understand the different types of car rental insurance available. It’s best to read the rental agreement carefully and ask questions if you’re not sure about something. Additionally, it’s important to consider your personal needs and the rental company’s policy when choosing car rental insurance.
