Does Your Auto Insurance Policy Cover a Rental Car While Traveling?

May 3, 2023||inPersonal Insurance|auto insurance, car rental, personal insurance

Depending on the situation, where you travel, the vehicle rented, the rental contract, and other factors can all impact coverage. Below is a general overview of Massachusetts Auto Policy (MAP) issues.

  • MAP is not worldwide. It only covers you in the U.S., its territories, Puerto Rico and Canada.
  • As long as you have comprehensive collision coverage on any of your vehicles, it would cover physical damage to the rental car. Note that this only applies to a ‘private passenger vehicle.’ A U-Haul truck or 10-person passenger van is a commercial vehicle and would not be covered.
Does Your Auto Insurance Policy Cover a Rental Car While Traveling?
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  • Some rental companies limit where a vehicle can be operated. Driving the car beyond these limitations violates the contract, and your insurance would not cover it.
  • Most rental agencies require all drivers to be listed and paid for at the time of rental. There is no coverage if you allow anyone else to drive and there is an accident.
  • Most rentals consider the contract void if you drive under the influence, which also voids coverage. MAP excludes “regular use” of another vehicle. If you rent for an extended period, it’s best to check with your insurance company. To avoid this issue, add a “Use of Other Autos” endorsement for the rental period and then remove it.
  • Many rental companies require replacing the auto with a new one if a total loss occurs. The MAP only pays for Actual Cash Value, not Replacement Cost, which is something to consider.
  • If you damage a car and can’t be rented to others, the rental agency may expect you to pay for lost rental time. MAP does not cover loss of use.

The Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) offered by the rental company can be a solution for situations not covered by your auto policy, such as “loss of use.” However, you should never assume that the CDW absolves you of all issues. Always read the contract and clearly understand what is and is not covered. Also, if you rent a car using a credit card offering some insurance protection, read the agreement and understand coverage limitations.

If you’re planning to rent a car, please Contact Us and one of our Murphy Insurance professionals would be happy to review the specifics of your auto policy protection. However, it’s ultimately your responsibility to understand the terms and requirements of the rental contract and determine if your policy provides the coverage you need.

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