Car rental excess insurance
Have you ever thought about what would happen if you damage a rental car? Although we often overlook this detail, the truth is that a small scratch can end up costing hundreds or even thousands of euros. This is where the car rental excess insurance.
What is excess insurance for rental cars?
When you rent a vehicle, it usually comes with compulsory insurance and, in many cases, with additional cover for own damage or theft. But these policies usually include a franchiseA fixed amount that you will have to pay if the car is damaged.
For example, if your rental car insurance includes an excess of €1,200 and you suffer a mishap with damages valued at €3,000, you would pay the first €1,200 out of your own pocket.
With a excess insurance for rental vehiclesthat amount would be covered. In other words, you could avoid having to take on a large unexpected expense.
Avoid surprises with your car rental excess
We help you choose the right insurance to travel with peace of mind and without overpaying.
How does it work exactly?
The excess insurance acts as a complement to the car rental insurance. Its mission is to cover the amount of the excess that you would have to pay in case of damage or theft. In this way, it protects you against one of the most unpleasant surprises when renting a vehicle: having to pay for something you thought was already covered.
What does this type of insurance cover?
Usual coverage includes:
- Physical damage to the rented vehicle.
- Theft or attempted theft.
- Fire.
- Damage to windows, sunroof, tyres, rims, underbody and crankcase.
This cover applies to vehicles rented within the European Union and can cover excesses of up to €1,500.
Is it worth taking out excess car rental insurance?
It depends on how you look at it. If you are going to rent a car during your holidays or for work reasons, having this protection can save you a lot of trouble. Imagine being in another country and having to deal with an unexpected expense of more than a thousand euros. That's why, compensates insurance excess car rental if you value your peace of mind and prefer to prevent unforeseen events.
In addition, this insurance can help you avoid having large amounts withheld from your credit card, which is common when the excess is not covered.
Differences between insurance with and without excess
When you rent a car, you can choose between:
- Insurance with excessYou bear part of the cost in the event of a claim. It is cheaper, but risky.
- Insurance without excessYou pay nothing if damage occurs, but the initial rental cost is usually higher.
This is where the car rental excess insurance. It allows you to rent with an excess (cheaper), but covering you with an additional policy. This way, you get a coverage similar to an insurance without excess, but in a more cost-effective way.
Why is it advisable to hire him?
Because it brings you:
- Peace of mind. You know that, whatever happens, you won't have to pay large amounts for damages.
- Savings. In many cases, taking out this cover separately is cheaper than paying for insurance with no excess at the car rental company.
- Additional protection. It covers items that are not always covered by the rental policy.
How to hire it?
If you are interested in this type of protection, it is best to contact a specialist advisor.
Remember that this type of insurance is contracted on a daily basis, with a maximum of 31 consecutive days.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly does "excess" on a rental car mean?
This is the amount of money you pay in the event of a claim before the car insurance covers the rest of the damage.
Does the excess insurance cover all possible damages?
It covers a wide range, including theft, physical damage, glass, tyres and more, but always within the limits specified in the policy.
Can I take out this insurance for any destination?
Most of these policies cover rentals in EU countries. Check with an advisor to see if it applies to your destination.
How do I know if my rent is exempt?
You should always check the rental contract. If there is an excess, it will be specified in euros or with a percentage.
What happens if I do not take out this insurance?
You will have to assume the full amount of the excess if damage or theft occurs.
Is it possible to contract for vans or only cars?
Some policies allow this, but it is important to confirm the type of vehicle with your insurer.