Driving abroad, security is the most important problem. Here the security includes not only the personal security, but also the security of the car you rent. Then buying insurance becomes the leading factor that renters will take into consideration. However, after deciding to buy insurance, you should do some checking work.
Note: There are four main coverages that will be offered while you are at the counter in a car rent company. They are: Collision Damage Waiver, personal Liability coverages, Personal Accident Insurance, and the Personal Effects Coverage. Many of these except PEC may be covered with your existing car insurance policy, so you need to do some checks.
1. Check your regular insurance coverage
Contact your insurance agent and make sure if the coverage can be transferred to car rentals. If it is ok, check the policy if it’s up to date and valid during your entire rental period.
If you have adequate liability coverage on your car or an umbrella policy on your home/auto, you may consider forgoing the second additional insurance, the PLC.
If you are covered by health insurance or have adequate medical coverage under your auto policy, the third insurance---PAC can be also neglected.
If you have home owners or renter insurance, and if you would not take some valuable things with you during the car rental, may be you will have no need to buy Personal Effects Coverage.
2. Check your credit card
Ask yourself a question: does my credit card offer enough insurance coverage. Most credit cards that say they will cover the rental car, offer only secondary coverage, so they will look to your personal insurance to cover the claim and then reimburse you any of pocket expenses.In a word, knowing your current insurance policy will help you keep a clear head in the front of the car rental company in an unacquainted country. Thus save you from some unnecessary expenses.