MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota. Car accidents can happen at any time, even when you’re on vacation. There are many myths about rental car insurance. What kind of insurance do you need if you plan to rent a car, and what insurance can you skip? Here are some things to consider:
- Understand your current insurance coverage. According to NerdWallet, if you currently have car insurance, your coverage should apply if you are using the car for leisure or personal purposes. However, if you are using the car for business purposes, you may want to speak to your employer about coverage.
- Consider the benefits and costs of a loss damage waiver. A loss damage waiver is not insurance, but a contract with the rental car company that gets you off the hook for any damage to the vehicle. Consider your current insurance company’s policy limits and coverage. If you have a high deductible, or if you’re renting an expensive car, you may want to opt in to the Loss Damage Waiver.
- If you don’t have insurance, you may want to consider someone like One Sure Insurance to help you get a good policy. Alternatively, you could consider the supplemental liability protection offered at the rental car counter. This coverage can protect you up to $1 million in some cases and can protect you for any damage done to other people’s cars or property. Personal injury attorneys like the Law Office of Martin T. Montilino see cases every year where individuals are held liable for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses incurred due to car accidents. However, if you have personal injury protection coverage with your current auto insurance, you may not need this additional coverage.
- Consider whether your credit card offers supplemental insurance. If you rent a car using your credit card, many companies offer additional coverage. Every card’s policy may differ, so you may want to check with your company. Remember that you must actually use your card to purchase the rental for the coverage to apply.
- Consider your homeowner’s insurance. In some cases, homeowner’s insurance may protect your personal effects should a car get stolen. Many insurance companies consider this an additional liability, so you may need to extend coverage before you leave home.
- Understand the limits of rental car coverage. According to S. News & World Report, negligence on the part of the driver may not be covered. This means that if you get into an accident and are sued for pain and suffering damages, insurance may not cover you.
Every year, thousands of people are hurt or killed in car accidents. The best way to protect yourself is to drive safely, avoid distracted driving, drive sober, and obey speed limits. However, if you have experienced losses due to another driver’s negligence or neglect, you may be able to recover your losses with the assistance of a personal injury lawyer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A lawyer may be able to help you recover pain and suffering damages and other losses not always covered by insurance. Visit us at www.martinmontilino.com to learn more.