We know that most credit cards offer rental car collision and theft insurance. However, the extent of coverage varies per credit card company so make sure to check with your card provider first to find out what is covered. Some companies continue to offer great rental car insurance while others offer the bare minimum.
Most major credit card companies offer secondary coverage, which means they will cover any additional costs your primary auto insurance company won't cover. Rental car agencies charge “loss-of-use” fees when a car that the customer damaged is not available for rental because it is in the shop. Agencies also charge“diminished value fees,” which is supposed to cover the inherent value lost when one of their rental cars is damaged.
Some credit card companies claim to cover these fees, but the problem is the circumstances in which they will cover them is very limited. In some cases, credit card companies will only cover the fees if they determine them to be “reasonable.”But what is and is not “reasonable” is up for the credit card companies to decide.
If your credit card does not include auto insurance or you think that the coverage is not enough, you can always get a more comprehensive car rental excess package offered by trusted insurance companies. To help you decide which is the best car rental insurance option for you, click here.
Read more information about booking a car in Australia.