Countless travelers are either unsure or totally unaware on their car insurance coverage when it comes to a vehicle rental. A lot of consumers are just so confused and are so ignorant on their insurance. These same consumers always end up wasting money by purchasing unnecessary insurance they thought they didn’t already have with their existing one. Before you purchase or pay for anything check first if your own personal car insurance program can provide adequate coverage without you buying any other additional insurance. Many credit cards offer some protection but it is usually secondary to your personal one.

Before availing auto insurance for rental cars make yourself familiar with the options first. If you have an existing and outstanding personal car insurance verify with your insurance company or call your agent to see if the rental vehicle will be covered in your personal policy as well. Check with your credit card company too, a phone call will always be cheaper than purchasing insurance you already have coverage for. Of course if you use your personal insurance, the usual coverage will apply to the rental car.

If you do happen to purchase auto insurance from the rental car provider, your personal policy will then be secondary. Before your personal policy covers for charges, the rental car insurance will pay first. Like any other car insurance this will also be subject to a deductible. Checking first with your primary insurance provider lessens the risks of duplicating a coverage you already have. This will save you from an unnecessary purchase. If you are doubtful on the limits by which your policy insures you with you can always acquire extra coverage. This is where totally comprehending your existing policy becomes important. Some rental companies offer accidental death and personal property coverage. Some even go through the extent of providing personal effects coverage for when your personal stuff gets stolen from the car you rented.

Auto insurance for rental vehicles gives you security while traveling in a rented vehicle. You may decide to get insurance from the rental company. The practical way is to compare the options being presented to the insurance you already have. There is no need for unnecessary expenses if you already have coverage. If your personal policy does not give you sufficient coverage then do not hesitate to purchase extra benefits. After all, your safety will always be worth more than the insurance you’re paying for.