MORE INFORMATION ON RENTAL CAR COVERAGE

I know this is the second post about rental cars, but we always seem to get calls on Rental Car Coverage. Someone in our office noticed this great "top ten" list that was put out by New York Central Mutual regarding Rental Coverage....

1. An insured is covered for damage or loss to their rented vehicle under the private passenger automobile insurance policy whether they are renting for work or personal purposes.

2. The policyholder should list anyone other than the renter who might be driving the rental vehicle. If an accident occurs with a driver other than the renter or one of the authorized drivers listed, the insured's policy might be held responsible for property damages that would normally be covered under the rental vehicle's policy.

3. The policy only covers damage to the rental vehicle if the contract is 30 continuous days or less. If a policyholder has an accident with the rental vehicle and the contract is more than 30 days, they will be held responsible for all the damage to the rental vehicle.

4. Renting a vehicle with a major credit card may also provide the necessary coverage. The policyholder should check with their credit card company.

5. Rental car companies are not permitted to "block" an insured's credit card if they decline to purchase the collision damage waiver or optional vehicle protection in states that offer them.

6. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT THE POLICYHOLDER INSPECTS THEIR RENTAL CAR CAREFULLY BEFORE LEAVING THE LOT AND UPON RETURN OF THE CAR.

7. If and insured damages their rental vehicle, they must notify their insurer immediately to give the insurer time to inspect the vehicle.

8. The policyholder should not allow a rental car company to charge any damages to their credit card. The insured must insist that the company bill them directly or contact their insurance company.

9. Just remember that an insurer can deny coverage for a loss that results from an intentional or irresponsible act.

10. The renter must read and question anything they are asked to sign. They should also keep copies of all notices and documents that they receive from the rental company, including the contract.