Car Hire Insurance - USA

kath99

I'm going to the USA and want to hire a car for 2 weeks but I'm getting confused. Could someone help me clarify please?

Some UK websites (including a thread somewhere on an MSE forum) say I won't need any additional insurance if I book via a UK site. Some UK car hire comparison websites say CDW included but don't mention SLI and others mention SLI but not CDW.

I've also read that it is recommended to get standalone Excess insurance in the event of needing to claim back the hefty deposit. Some UK websites list 'Zero Excess Insurance' and I'm not quite sure whether this means I need it or not.

Thanks in advance.
k

photome

I rent in the USA every year have never bought any additional insurance ( never had to claim either). Most recently been using alamobrits top package which includes all the extras, extra driver full tank etc.

I have used brokers in the past and always get their top( gold ) package again including everything

stevie11

I agree with Photome, book direct with a UK agency and get the all inclusive package with zero excess. Sometimes these don't cover things like lost keys, undercarriage, tyres, etc and for a few $ a day you can take out additional cover or purchase an annual cover in the UK for these. Check the cover with the agency before purchasing extras.

Note if you are thinking of purchasing direct with a US rental agency they work differently to the UK agencies and it will usually end up costing more for the same car, duration and cover.

WAYT

Rentals booked from UK website will contain LI, though only the minimum required. So if you hit someone or do damage to their property, you may only be covered for up to US$20,000. SLI usually takes that up to US$1,000,000.
Also as aforementioned, keys, tyres, windscreen etc may not be covered.

So it's really up to you if you want to cover yourself or not. I do, as a matter of course.

https://www.bettersafe.com/Products/Car-Hire-Excess-Insurance-Protection
http://www.insurance4carhire.com
https://www.carhireexcess.com

kath99

Thank you all, that's reassuring. I've now booked through a UK site.