Don’t be pushed into buying car insurance you don’t need. Check your own automobile insurance policy before you rent a vehicle to drive. If you have already purchased liability protection for your own vehicle, then you are likely covered for any damages you may cause while driving a rental car.
Under Georgia law, O.C.G.A. §33-34-4, all vehicle owners are required to have a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover loss for personal injury and property damage. This is a matter of public policy. If you cause an accident, then the injured person is guaranteed to be able to recover their damages, at least up to the limits of your policy.
If you decline to pay the additional amount for insurance suggested by the rental agency, you can expect a response similar to the following: “Keep in mind that you are liable for any loss or damage to the rental vehicle.”
Unless your own auto policy specifically excludes you from coverage while driving a rented vehicle, you will not need to purchase additional insurance.
When you rent a car, don’t blindly accept the insurance options the rental company wants you to buy. Check with your own auto insurance agent to see if you’re covered under your policy. Or, you might even avail yourself of the use of a premium credit card that offers travel insurance. It’s worth investigating!
About Tom Rowsey