Spring Break Rental Car Coverage

As parents, spring break can be a difficult time. It can be overwhelming, from caring for your little ones to making sure your older children have the fun and relaxation they deserve.

But what about when your older children want to take a road trip?

Here’s everything you need to know about getting the right vehicle insurance coverage before they hit the road.

Auto Insurance

You’ll want to ensure the rental car is insured correctly to keep your teen safe. After all, traffic fatalities spike during spring break due to increased accidents.

If you’re planning to rent a car for your teen driver, it is important to understand what type of coverage your auto insurance provides. Most auto policies provide coverage for rentals, but the limit and scope may vary depending on your policy type. To find out if your child is covered, contact your agent. If they are listed, ask for details on the coverage limits, as this could help you avoid unexpected costs.

Even if your policy covers rental cars, you should check with your insurance carrier about additional coverage options. Some policies may provide additional coverage for extended trips that are not covered under your original policy. Knowing what coverage you have in place can help you make an informed decision when renting a car.

Credit Card Rental Insurance

Many credit cards offer rental car insurance, which can provide coverage for physical damage and liability. This type of insurance is usually secondary to any other auto policy, meaning it will only cover the remaining amount after your primary policy has been applied. It’s important to read the fine print on your card agreement, as each card may have different terms and conditions.

The Best Time to Buy Rental Insurance

So, is purchasing rental car insurance a good idea? It really depends on your personal preferences and situation. Generally, if your auto policy does not include rental car coverage or is insufficient, it may be wise to purchase additional insurance.

In fact, rental insurance covers more than just the rental car; it can also cover you for:

• Loss of Use – additional expenses incurred by a rental agency if your vehicle is damaged and cannot be rented out
• Personal Property Coverage – theft and/or damage to personal possessions in the rental car
• Claim History – your insurance premium may not be increased if you file a claim through your rental car insurance policy, unlike when filing through your personal auto policy

And more!

At Northeast – Metro West Insurance Agency, we can help you determine what coverage your current insurance provides. To learn more about your auto insurance coverage, speak with one of our agents today!

You can rely on our experienced professionals to help you and your family find the coverage that best meets your needs.