There is nothing more important than being on the road with a safe feeling. Here it is important to know that with Car Rental you can count on a good insurance for your rental car, including protection against damage, theft and liability. Nevertheless, there are some aspects you should pay attention to.
Insurance coverage
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance largely covers liability for damage to the rental car. The highest amount you may have to bear yourself corresponds to the deductible. In some countries there is a deductible for specific damage to tires, floor, roof and windows, depending on where you pick up the car. The amount of this deductible varies depending on the country and car type you reserve. The exact value is stated in the terms and conditions and displayed on the car rental voucher. If you have chosen our No-Risk guarantee for EUR 3.50 per day, you can claim damages up to an amount of EUR 1500.
Third-party liability
A good liability insurance is crucial to enjoy your car rental carefree. Therefore, the rental price includes the legally required third-party liability (WA) insurance. This insurance covers damages to third parties, including damages caused by your own actions or other possible drivers. This includes death, injury and property damage to third parties in the event of an accident.
Theft
Unfortunately, it happens occasionally that cars are stolen. In the event of theft, you should contact both the police and the car rental company to file a report. A stolen vehicle is generally covered by theft insurance unless the theft is due to negligence or violation of contract terms. It is essential that you can prove that you took all possible steps to prevent theft and that you are able to produce a key to the car.
Pre-existing damages
Obviously, you want to avoid being held responsible for pre-existing damage to the rental car. When picking up the rental car, it is advisable to perform an inspection around the car and have any damage noted by the staff. Take the time to check the damage form carefully and make sure you receive a copy that lists the existing damage and any discrepancies. This will prevent possible confusion or disputes later. If there is a mechanical problem or technical failure of the car, report it immediately to the staff at the pickup location so that you are entitled to a replacement car.
New Damages
If unexpected damage occurs to the rental car, it is always necessary to notify the car rental company. We always recommend taking pictures of the situation and the damage, should it happen. Usually there is a damage form in the car. If not, you can ask for it at the pickup location. The damage form must be signed by all parties involved. Upon returning the car, the location will prepare a damage report to assess the damage and costs. It is important to keep this report along with a summary of the costs incurred. The cost of the damage will be charged to your credit card, up to the amount of the deductible of the rental car.
Roadside assistance
Should you encounter a breakdown along the way, it is important to notify the car rental supplier's roadside assistance. The breakdown phone number is on the back of the rental agreement and/or in the terms and conditions of the respective country. Breakdown assistance is included for technical problems and accidents, with the exception of problems caused by your own actions. In this case, the costs are at your own expense. Depending on the car rental company and the country, it is possible to take out additional insurance or service on site for breakdown assistance and costs resulting from problems caused by you. You can find information on available options and details in the terms and conditions of the specific country, but keep in mind that this is not possible in all countries.
In several destinations, several rental companies offer the option to purchase additional insurance for roadside assistance for problems caused by your own actions. This additional insurance is optional and can be purchased locally.
An example is our partner Alamo in the United States and Canada, where you can add "Roadside Assistance Plus" for USD 4.99 per day excluding taxes. This optional insurance covers, among other things:
- Replacement of lost keys
- Costs in the event the car is locked out
- Starting assistance in case of a dead battery
- Refueling if you run out of gas
- Costs if you fill up with the wrong fuel
- Tire breakdown and tire replacement
- Possible towing costs
Hertz offers the "Premium Emergency Roadside Service" (PERS), which is an additional insurance for roadside assistance for problems caused by you, such as a dead battery, lost keys, misfueling or leaving keys in a locked car.
Accident
In the event of an accident involving others or a unilateral accident, it is very important to notify both the rental location and roadside assistance immediately. In case of injury or property damage, it is necessary to have a police report. Collect all necessary information from involved persons and witnesses, such as names, addresses and phone numbers. It is crucial to gather all requested information on the claim form and have it signed by all parties involved.