Who is Responsible if Your Rental Car Breaks Down?
A reliable and national rental car company is frequently advised as a method to obtain a well-maintained vehicle that can handle the demands of a lengthy road trip.
However, even rentals can break down and leave you stranded on the side of the road. The answers depend on your rental company’s roadside assistance plan, rental insurance choices, and comprehensive auto insurance coverage.
Call the Rental Car Company
Begin by informing the vehicle’s legal owner, which is most often the rental car company. They have the tools to dispatch a local tow truck or send an assistance vehicle to give you a jump start. It’s also a standard procedure to notify the firm when it’s safe.
Even if you utilize services offered by other businesses, inquire about reimbursement from the rental firm before deciding to use any service they’re not responsible for delivering.
Customers who received emergency roadside assistance as part of their rental agreement or purchased optional rental insurance for designated disasters should expect a reply from the company immediately since they are currently providing these services.
Utilize Your Roadside Assistance Insurance
Suppose you have a comprehensive emergency roadside assistance strategy in place. In that case, the rental company may want you to tow your vehicle to a nearby location where they can assist you with obtaining a new automobile.
If you’re in an emergency situation, such as with your vehicle near water or on the verge of burning up, don’t hesitate to call for help. It’s always a good idea to use your methods when towing a car without permission from the rental company, and it most certainly vitiates your chances of being compensated for any expenses. It may also result in extra costs on the company’s end, depending on the terms of the agreement.
Call Your Credit Card Provider
Every roadside recovery strategy includes automatic coverage for any vehicles you rent or borrow from family and friends. However, specific insurance coverage may exclude leased cars and insist you obtain rental car specific insurance.
When this happens, see whether your credit card company offers free roadside assistance. When you have a card from a major company, you’ll be shocked by what’s covered for free.
Be Weary of Extra Charges
Why pay for optional rental car insurance from the rental company when you already have vehicle insurance and roadside help?
It’s conceivable that the contract stipulates that any mechanical issues discovered during your hire are charged to the credit card you provided when signing up for the card. You could be charged hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unexpected costs.
Recommended Coverage When Renting a Car
When renting a car, it is essential to ensure you have the proper insurance coverage if you get into an accident. Here are a few coverages you should consider.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
A Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), often offered in car rental agreements, is an insurance policy that waives the renter’s financial responsibility for damages to the rental vehicle in the event of a collision.
It’s important to note that CDWs typically do not cover damages arising from negligence, illegal use, or other exclusions specified in the rental agreement. This waiver can significantly reduce the potential financial liability for renters. However, it’s crucial to understand that a CDW is not comprehensive insurance.
It primarily covers only the rented vehicle and may exclude coverage for other liabilities such as damage to other cars, property, or personal injuries. As a result, renters should carefully consider their coverage needs and possibly supplement a CDW with additional insurance policies for complete protection.
Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP)
Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP) is an optional insurance coverage offered by car rental companies, designed to provide the renter and authorized drivers with increased liability coverage beyond the minimum limits typically included in the rental agreement.
This coverage is essential when the renter is held responsible for injuries to third parties or damage to someone else’s property due to an automobile accident. SLP generally offers significant coverage, often up to $1 million.
This additional liability protection is crucial for renters who seek extra security against potential lawsuits or claims that may arise from accidents involving the rented vehicle. Renters must assess their personal insurance policies and determine if SLP complements their existing coverage, ensuring a comprehensive shield against potential liabilities.
Insurance Navy can get you the best car insurance coverage at even better prices; all it takes is one phone call. Contact us at 888-949-6289 to request free cheap car insurance quotes. If you need further assistance, stop at one of our many locations.
