Summer is finally here & the kids are out of school so time for vacation!  If you’re planning to rent a car at your destination or for a road trip here are a few things to keep in mind:

Will you use your car insurance in lieu of buying coverage from the Rental car company? 

If you use your car insurance and you do have a loss, your deductible can still be a factor, and the loss will register as your loss, so you may lose your loss free credit or be surcharged on your own car insurance. 

Many rental car companies will charge for “Diminution in Value” (the vehicle was worth more prior to the loss and is now worth less since it’s been repaired – think “CarFax”), but not all auto insurers will pay for the diminished value.  Use a credit card that offers to cover what the insurance declines.

Most rental car companies charge for the time they can’t rent that vehicle since it’s out of their rental pool being repaired.  Some insurers won’t cover this but again – use a credit card that provides coverage the insurance company declines.

How can you minimize the chance of a loss? 

You’ll probably be driving a vehicle that’s different than your vehicle so familiarize yourself (and any other operator) with the features of the vehicle – it’s easy to have an accident while you’re searching for the headlight or windshield wiper switch or the radio or GPS!

You may be in an area that’s new to you.  Check directions and GPS before moving the vehicle – plan your trip or sightseeing in advance – it will make the trip more fun if you aren’t lost or trying to understand a confusing area!

Finally, HAVE FUN & Enjoy the Trip!