What is Car Rental Collision Coverage

Written and researched by Michael Kays (Travel Insurance Expert) | Fact Checked by Danya Kristen (Insurance Agent).

Car rental coverage is an important part of planning for a road trip. It helps protect you from unexpected costs associated with an accident or theft.

Knowing what collision coverage is and the various types available will help you make the right decision when renting a car.

Car Rental Collision Coverage – Defenition by Travel Insurance

Car Rental Collision Coverage is a type of travel insurance coverage that helps protect you from the financial responsibility associated with damage to a rental car.

This coverage typically pays for repairs to the rental car (or the cash value of the car) when it is damaged in an accident or stolen. It usually has a deductible, which is the amount you must pay out of pocket before the insurance kicks in.

How does comprehensive car insurance works for rental cars?

Comprehensive car insurance for rental cars works in the same way as it does for any other car.

It provides coverage for any damage to the rental car caused by an accident, theft, fire, vandalism, or weather-related events.

Comprehensive car insurance will also cover the cost of repairs or replacement of the rental car, as well as any medical bills and legal costs associated with the accident.

Recommended Plans

✅ Atlas America

Up to $2,000,000 of Overall Maximum Coverage, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19, Trip Interruption & Travel Delay.

✅ Safe Travels Comprehensive

Coverage for in-patient and out-patient medical accidents up to $1 Million, Coverage of acute episodes of pre-existing conditions, Coverage from 5 days to 364 days (about 12 months).

✅ Patriot America Platinum

Up to $8,000,000 limits, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Coinsurance for treatment received in the U.S. (100% within PPO Network), Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions covered.

Can I take car insurance on rental car?

Yes, you can take out car insurance on a rental car.

Typically, when renting a car you will be offered the option to purchase additional insurance coverage from the car rental company, which may include liability coverage, personal accident insurance, and other types of coverage.

Which car insurance fully protects the vehicle renter?

The only car insurance that fully protects the vehicle renter is a collision damage waiver (CDW) offered by the rental car company.

This type of coverage will cover the cost of any damage to the rental car, up to the full value of the vehicle, regardless of fault.