Hertz Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

When renting a car, one of the most important things to consider is insurance. It can be confusing and overwhelming to navigate the different types of coverage offered by various rental car companies. In this article, we will discuss Hertz Insurance, what it covers, and how to determine if it’s right for you.

What is Hertz Insurance?

Hertz offers various insurance options for renters, including:

Insurance Type
Description
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in the event of an accident, theft, or vandalism
Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
Covers the cost of the rental car if it is stolen or damaged
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses and accidental death or dismemberment for the driver and passengers
Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
Covers loss or damage to personal belongings inside the rental car

It’s important to note that these insurance options are not the same as liability insurance, which is required by law and covers damages or injuries you may cause to others while driving the rental car.

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

CDW is a type of insurance that covers damage to the rental car in case of an accident, theft, or vandalism. The cost of CDW varies depending on the rental location and the type of car rented. If you decline CDW, you will be responsible for any damage to the rental car, up to the full value of the car.

It’s important to note that CDW is not insurance, but a waiver of the rental car company’s right to charge you for damages. CDW does not cover bodily injury or property damage to others, nor does it cover damage caused by driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

CDW may not be necessary if you already have coverage through your personal car insurance or credit card. Check with your insurance provider to see if rental car coverage is included.

Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)

LDW is similar to CDW in that it covers the cost of the rental car if it is stolen or damaged. However, LDW also includes coverage for loss of use, which is the amount of money the rental car company loses while the car is being repaired or replaced.

Like CDW, LDW is not insurance, but a waiver of the rental car company’s right to charge you for damages. If you decline LDW, you will be responsible for the cost of the rental car if it is stolen or damaged.

LDW may not be necessary if you already have coverage through your personal car insurance or credit card. Check with your insurance provider to see if rental car coverage is included.

Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)

PAI covers medical expenses and accidental death or dismemberment for the driver and passengers in case of an accident while driving the rental car. The cost of PAI varies depending on the rental location and the number of people covered.

PAI is not required by law, and may not be necessary if you already have coverage through your personal health insurance or another policy. Check with your insurance provider to see if rental car coverage is included.

Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)

PEC covers loss or damage to personal belongings inside the rental car. The cost of PEC varies depending on the rental location and the value of the items covered.

PEC may not be necessary if you already have coverage through your personal homeowners or renters insurance. Check with your insurance provider to see if rental car coverage is included.

FAQ

Do I need to purchase Hertz Insurance?

It depends on your personal situation. If you have coverage through your personal car insurance or credit card, you may not need to purchase additional coverage. However, if you do not have coverage or are unsure, purchasing Hertz Insurance may provide peace of mind.

What is the cost of Hertz Insurance?

The cost of Hertz Insurance varies depending on the type of coverage, rental location, and the type of car rented. Contact Hertz directly for a quote.

What is the process for filing a claim with Hertz Insurance?

If you need to file a claim, contact Hertz immediately. You will need to provide information about the incident, such as the date, time, location, and a description of what happened. Hertz will then provide instructions for the next steps.

What is the difference between a waiver and insurance?

A waiver is an agreement that you will not hold the rental car company responsible for damages or theft of the rental car. Insurance is a policy that provides financial protection in case of a covered event, such as an accident or theft.

Can I decline Hertz Insurance?

Yes, you can decline Hertz Insurance if you have coverage through your personal car insurance or credit card. However, keep in mind that if you decline coverage and something happens to the rental car, you will be responsible for the cost of damages.

Conclusion

Hertz Insurance offers various coverage options for renters, including Collision Damage Waiver, Loss Damage Waiver, Personal Accident Insurance, and Personal Effects Coverage. It’s important to determine if additional coverage is necessary based on your personal situation and existing insurance policies. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Hertz directly for more information.