When renting a car from Hertz, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to purchase Hertz rental insurance. While some people rely on their personal car insurance or credit card coverage, Hertz offers a range of insurance options designed to provide additional protection. Understanding the benefits of Hertz rental insurance can help you decide if it’s worth the investment for your next rental.
In this guide, we’ll dive into what Hertz rental insurance covers, how it compares to personal insurance, the costs involved, and much more.
What Is Hertz Rental Insurance?
Hertz rental insurance refers to the insurance options offered by Hertz to provide coverage for various risks associated with renting a car. These risks can range from vehicle damage to theft or liability issues. Hertz offers several types of coverage, each designed to protect you in different ways. Some of the most common options include:
- Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): Covers damages or loss of the rental vehicle.
- Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS): Provides additional liability coverage if you’re at fault in an accident.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in case of an accident.
- Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): Protects your personal belongings in the event of theft from the vehicle.
By opting for Hertz rental insurance, you can minimize your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident, theft, or damage to the vehicle.
Hertz Rental Insurance vs Personal Insurance: What You Should Know
A common question renters ask is whether they really need to purchase Hertz rental insurance if they already have personal auto insurance. While your personal insurance may cover some aspects of a rental, it’s essential to understand the gaps that could exist in your coverage.
- Rental car damage: While some personal auto insurance policies may cover damage to a rental car, many exclude coverage for loss-of-use fees (the cost of the car being out of service for repairs). Hertz’s Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) would cover this.
- Liability: Personal auto insurance generally includes liability coverage, but it may not be enough, especially in case of severe accidents. Hertz’s Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) provides additional coverage that might be necessary.
- International travel: Personal insurance often doesn’t cover rental cars abroad. Hertz rental insurance, especially when traveling internationally, can offer you peace of mind by ensuring coverage wherever you travel.
Hertz Rental Insurance Coverage Explained
Understanding the coverage options under Hertz rental insurance can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown of the primary types of coverage:
- Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): This is not technically insurance but an agreement that Hertz will waive its right to recover costs from you for damages to the rental car. It covers damage or theft of the rental vehicle, but not necessarily other vehicles involved in an accident.
- Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS): This supplement provides additional liability coverage above what is required by law. In the case of an accident where you are at fault, LIS can cover costs for damage to the other driver’s vehicle and medical expenses beyond what your personal policy might pay.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): PAI covers medical costs for you and your passengers in case of an accident. It can provide coverage for ambulance services, hospital stays, and other medical treatments.
- Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): This covers your personal belongings that may be stolen or damaged while in the rental car. Items such as laptops, luggage, and other valuables would be covered.
Understanding the coverage options under Hertz rental insurance can help you make an informed decision. If you’re also considering living abroad, check out our guide on How to Apply for an Iceland Breeding Visa.
How Much Does Hertz Rental Insurance Cost?
The cost of Hertz rental insurance can vary based on several factors, including the type of vehicle you’re renting, your location, and the duration of your rental. On average, renters can expect to pay:
- Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): $10-$30 per day
- Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS): $10-$20 per day
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): $2-$10 per day
- Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): $2-$5 per day
While these costs may seem high, consider the potential expenses if you’re involved in an accident without adequate coverage. Paying for rental insurance could save you from significant out-of-pocket costs later.
Hertz Rental Insurance for International Travel: Is It Worth It?
Traveling abroad comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to car rentals. Many personal auto insurance policies do not cover international rentals, which is why purchasing Hertz rental insurance for international travel is often recommended.
Hertz offers specific coverage options for international renters that can provide protection from unforeseen events like accidents, theft, or damage to the rental vehicle. In particular, Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) are highly recommended for international travel, as they can cover the high costs associated with accidents or damages in foreign countries.
Does Hertz Rental Insurance Cover Damages?
Yes, Hertz rental insurance covers damages, but the extent of coverage depends on the type of insurance you choose. The Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) typically covers damages to the rental vehicle, but it does not cover personal injuries or damages to other vehicles in an accident.
On the other hand, the Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) covers damages to other vehicles and property if you are at fault in an accident. It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of your rental agreement and the insurance policy to fully understand what is and isn’t covered.
How to File a Claim with Hertz Rental Insurance
Filing a claim with Hertz rental insurance is relatively straightforward. Follow these steps if you’re involved in an accident or your rental car is damaged:
- Report the incident: Contact Hertz immediately to report the accident or damage.
- Document the damage: Take pictures of the vehicle and any damages, as well as the scene of the accident if applicable.
- Complete a claim form: Hertz will provide a claim form, which you need to fill out with all the necessary details, including your rental agreement and insurance information.
- Submit the form: Once the form is complete, submit it along with any supporting documents, such as police reports or photographs, to Hertz.
- Follow up: Be sure to stay in touch with Hertz to ensure the claim is processed quickly.
Should You Buy Hertz Rental Insurance? Pros and Cons
Deciding whether to purchase Hertz rental insurance depends on your situation. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons to help you decide.
Pros:
- Provides additional coverage for damages and liability, reducing your financial risk.
- Offers peace of mind, especially for international rentals.
- Covers gaps that personal auto insurance may not, such as loss-of-use fees and theft.
Cons:
- Can significantly increase the overall cost of your rental.
- Some personal insurance policies or credit cards may already offer sufficient coverage.
- Coverage options can be confusing and may not cover all scenarios.
What to Consider Before Purchasing Hertz Rental Insurance
Before purchasing Hertz rental insurance, it’s essential to consider factors such as your personal insurance coverage, the location of your rental, and the type of vehicle. For example, if you’re renting a high-value car or driving in unfamiliar areas, extra coverage may provide added security. Additionally, always compare Hertz’s policies with those of third-party insurers for the best value.
Conclusion
When renting a vehicle from Hertz, understanding your insurance options is crucial. Hertz offers a variety of rental insurance policies that can protect you from costly expenses related to accidents, damages, or theft. While the price of Hertz rental insurance may seem steep, the peace of mind it provides could be worth the investment, especially for international travel or longer rentals. By carefully reviewing your current insurance coverage and the rental options, you can make an informed decision about whether Hertz rental insurance is right for you.
FAQs
- Is Hertz rental insurance necessary?
Hertz rental insurance can be helpful if your personal insurance doesn’t fully cover rental cars or if you’re traveling internationally. - Does Hertz rental insurance cover international travel?
Yes, Hertz offers insurance coverage for international rentals, providing protection in foreign countries. - What is Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)?
LDW is a waiver that covers damage or theft of the rental vehicle, relieving you of financial responsibility. - Can I rely on my credit card for rental insurance?
Some credit cards offer rental insurance, but coverage may be limited. It’s best to check with your card issuer for details. - Does Hertz insurance cover medical expenses?
Hertz’s Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in case of an accident. - Is there a deductible with Hertz rental insurance?
Most Hertz rental insurance options, like the Loss Damage Waiver, do not require a deductible. - How do I know if my personal insurance covers rentals?
Contact your insurance provider to verify if rental cars are included in your coverage. - Can I add Hertz insurance after booking my rental?
Yes, Hertz allows you to add insurance options when you pick up the rental vehicle. - Does Hertz rental insurance cover theft?
Yes, Loss Damage Waiver covers theft of the rental vehicle. - Is Hertz insurance refundable?
Hertz insurance is typically non-refundable once you’ve used the rental, but you can cancel it before picking up the car.