This may seem a sensible suggestion at first sight. If we have auto car insurance cover already why pay for it a second time. However, there is a sting in the end of this particular tale. But first, let’s make sure we understand how insurance for a rental car works.

Insurance for a Rental Car: The At the Counter Experience

Two things do not stand to our favor when we join the rental counter queue. We are in a hurry, we just want to sign, grab the keys and hit the road. We may also not understand the inner workings of car rental insurance and be ill prepared. However, the clerk will be a past master on the subject.

If they play their cards right they can double the bill for a rental car, and that’s according to The Guardian newspaper which is rock solid. It reports auto rental clerks have a checklist of extras that extend all the way from child seats to satnavs. This is an old gig, and it goes back at least as far as our childhood

"Will you walk into my parlor?” said the Spider to the Fly, 'Tis the prettiest little parlor that ever you did spy;

The way into my parlor is up a winding stair, And I've a many curious things to show when you are there.”

Said the cunning Spider to the Fly, “Dear friend what can I do, To prove the warm affection I've always felt for you?

I have within my pantry, good store of all that's nice; I'm sure you're very welcome — will you please to take a slice?” (Mary Howitt, 1829)

The Insurance on Offer at the Car Rental Counter

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) / Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) If you have collision and comprehensive cover on your vehicle you can use it subject to your deductible. The same should also apply to damage to third party vehicles.

• Your own health insurance should likewise cover your passengers’ and your own medical costs in an accident. Your homeowners / renters insurance should also cover your luggage in the rental car. However, you usually have to tell your insurance company you are traveling.

How Bonzah is Smarter Damage Insurance for a Rental Car

If you claim against your own car policy for damage to a rental car, you don’t just end up paying a deductible yourself. You also dent your claims record and could face a higher premium in the future. Bonzah has no deductibles up to the insured amount, and your baggage and personal items travel free. Kind of a no brainer, don’t you think? Contact us here.

Image: John G. Diefenbaker International Airport: SriMesh BY CC 3.0