When you rent a car, one of the first questions you might have is: Does my personal car insurance cover the rental car? Or do you need to purchase additional rental car auto insurance? Understanding how coverage works can save you money and prevent surprise expenses in case of an accident. At John E. Peakes Insurance Agency, we want to clear up the confusion about rental car insurance so you can make informed decisions.
In most cases, your personal auto insurance policy extends to rental cars, meaning if you have coverage on your own vehicle, it usually applies when you drive a rental car for personal use. This includes liability coverage (damages you cause to others), as well as physical damage coverage if your policy includes comprehensive and collision.
However, there are key exceptions. Your personal auto insurance generally does not cover:
It’s important to confirm with your insurer exactly what your liability limits and deductibles are on rental vehicles.
Even if your personal coverage applies, rental car companies offer extra insurance options that you may want to consider based on your circumstances:
Your credit card company might also provide rental car insurance if you use their card to pay for the rental, which can be primary coverage and worth verifying before declining extra options.
Navigating rental car insurance can be complicated. At John E. Peakes Insurance Agency, we take the extra time to assess your needs and shop for the insurance solutions best tailored to your situation. We help you avoid gaps in coverage and ensure that your bottom line is protected.
Whether you’re renting occasionally or need commercial coverage for your business vehicles, our dedicated team offers personalized service and mental safety. Don’t let “what-ifs” keep you up at night — let us help you find the right protection.
Protect yourself smartly with rental car auto insurance and more. If you’re unsure about how your current insurance covers rental cars or if you’re ready to explore better options, don’t wait. Call us directly at 1-800-800-5199, experts at John E. Peakes Insurance Agency for a no-obligation, FREE policy review. We’ll help you understand your coverage, find any gaps, and shop for tailored insurance solutions that meet your unique needs, whether personal or business-related. Contact us today to get started and drive with confidence!
Yes, in most cases your personal policy covers rental cars with the same limits and deductibles, but usually only for personal use, not business.
If you have full coverage and/or rental coverage on your credit card, you may not need it. However, rental insurance can reduce out-of-pocket costs or cover gaps like “loss of use” fees.
Many credit cards offer primary or secondary rental car coverage if used to pay for the rental. Confirm specific details with your card issuer.
Comprehensive coverage on your policy or loss damage waivers from the rental company typically cover theft, vandalism, and physical damage.
