Renting a Car in Europe: What You Need to Know About Insurance

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, you’re likely considering renting a car for some or all of your travels. And if you’re renting a car, you likely have questions about rental car insurance. Even if you have your own car insurance policy, you may be wondering if it will cover you when you’re driving a rental car in Europe.

Do You Need Rental Car Insurance in Europe?

The answer to this question is usually yes. While you may have your own car insurance at home, that policy may not extend to European rentals. Some credit cards may offer rental car insurance in Europe, so check with your card issuer to confirm that this is the case. Additionally, many rental car companies offer their own policies, so make sure to ask if you’re not sure.

What Does Rental Car Insurance Cover?

Rental car insurance policies generally cover things like collision damage, theft protection, personal accident insurance, and liability insurance. Depending on the policy, it may also cover roadside assistance, towing, and other related costs. It’s important to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered in a policy before you purchase it.

What are the Different Types of Rental Car Insurance?

When it comes to rental car insurance, there are several different types of policies you can purchase. These include third party liability insurance, personal accident insurance, and collision damage waiver insurance. Third party liability insurance covers any damage you may cause to a third party, personal accident insurance covers medical expenses and death benefits, and collision damage waiver insurance covers damage to the rental car itself.

Are there any Restrictions?

Many rental car insurance policies come with limitations and restrictions. Be sure to read the fine print of any policy you’re considering purchasing so you know exactly what you’re getting. Some policies may not cover certain types of vehicles, or may have restrictions on the age of the driver or the types of roads you can drive on.

Where Can You Find Rental Car Insurance?

If you’re looking for rental car insurance in Europe, there are several places you can look. Many rental car companies offer their own policies, so make sure to ask what they offer. Additionally, many credit cards offer rental car insurance, so check with your card issuer to see if this is the case. You can also purchase a stand-alone policy online from an insurance provider.