Should You Elect the Insurance Option on Your Car Rental?

You know it's coming, -- the point in the car rental transaction where you are asked if you want to purchase the insurance option. While this may seem like a prudent move, you can avoid the cost of insurance, and the potential confrontation with the car rental agent by doing some homework ahead of time. In most cases, your own auto insurance covers your use of rental vehicles, but it is important to understand the fine points of the coverage. In some instances, an individual auto insurance policy will cover collision damages but not the comprehensive expenses. It is advisable to contact your auto insurance agent prior to renting a car to determine what specific coverage, if any, you need to purchase when renting a car. Also, be sure to check with your credit card carriers to see what kind of primary or subordinate coverage they provide and try to coordinate your rental coverage needs with them.