Car Hire Excess Insurance Europe from US$7.45 /day

What is a rental car insurance?

Rental car insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for rental cars. When you rent a car, the rental company will typically offer various insurance options that cover damage or theft of the rental car. While these options lowers your risk, it still comes with an excess or deductible that you will have to pay which can run between $500 and $2,500 or more depending on the rental car company as well as the type of vehicle you are renting.

Types of Car Rental Insurance in Europe

Collision Damage Waiver

In most cases, a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is offered by rental car companies in Europe as part of the rental cost. It is a contract that covers the cost of damages or losses incurred to the rented vehicle in the event of an accident or other damage.

A CDW will cover the cost to repair your rental vehicle as well as cover any loss of rental income for the rental agency if the vehicle is damaged in a collision. However, it should be noted that a CDW only covers the bodywork of the vehicle, excluding other sections of the rental car.

A CDW comes with a long list of exclusions. While exclusions can vary by policy, in most cases, the following are not covered by a CDW:

• Any liability coverage: There is no liability coverage for either bodily injury or property so if you injure a person or a person’s property (their car for example) there is no coverage.
• Glass: This includes all the windows, lights, mirrors, and windshields.
• Tires: The tires and wheels are not covered by a CDW.
• Personal belongings: Any personal belongings in the vehicle that are stolen or destroyed in an accident are not covered. This includes the boot and glovebox.
• Keys: If you lose the keys to the vehicle you will have to cover the replacement.
• Battery: If the battery goes flat or is damaged in an accident there is no coverage.
• Interior: The entire interior of the vehicle is excluded, this includes seats, steering wheel, carpet, stereo, and any other items in the interior of the vehicle.
• Additional equipment: Child seats, GPS units, ski or bike racks are all excluded.
• Towing: A CDW does not cover towing charges.
• Gears/motor/transmission: The components that move the vehicle, the engine and transmission are excluded from coverage.
• Risky driving: Any vehicle damage that is caused by risky driving, off roading, drunk driving or even speeding will not be covered.
• Agreement violations: If you violate the rental contract and are involved in an accident, the damage would not be covered.

Theft Protection (TP)

TP insurance, offered by rental car companies, is one part of rental car insurance and covers the responsibility of the renter in case of theft of the vehicle or parts of it or in case of damage to the rented vehicle due to attempted theft of the vehicle or parts of it. In most cases, you will be charged a deductible in the event of theft or damage due to attempted theft, in the amount specified in the rental agreement, under the heading: “TP Excess”. The amount of the deductible depends on the country and the vehicle group and is specified in the price lists of the various rental companies. The deductible applies to the renter in any case of theft, regardless of fault.

Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW)

Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) is an optional car rental excess insurance that minimizes renters’ financial liability for damages—including those to the tires, windshield, and undercarriage—often to zero, providing more comprehensive coverage than standard Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). Renters can obtain SCDW directly from car rental companies or through purchase car hire excess insurance from third-party providers, such as CarInsuRent, with potential cost savings and added convenience.

Sixt Rental Car Insurance in Italy

Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI)

Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) is an optional coverage that provides additional liability protection to the driver of a rental car. The coverage limits for SLI can vary depending on the rental agency and the statutory limits of the country in which the rental takes place.

Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)

Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is a policy that provides coverage for accidental medical costs, emergency care, and accidental death resulting from an accident. PAI is designed to provide a financial benefit to help cover the costs of being injured in an accident. The policy pays out a benefit if you are injured in a manner listed in the policy.

Vehicle rental excess insurance

What is insured?

• Excess reimbursement up to US$ 4,500
• Damage Waiver (LDW) up to US$ 4,500
• Towing charges up to US$ 500
• Improper fuel charges up to US$ 500
• Loss or theft of keys up to US$ 500
• Vehicle return charges up to US$ 250
• Personnal belongings up to US$ 500
• Hotel expenses up to US$ 150

What is not covered?

• Damage to the vehicle or property of a third party
• Damage caused by a person not authorized to drive the rented vehicle
• Mechanical failure of the rented vehicle
• Loss or damage to the vehicle’s interior that is not related to a collision.
• Parking tickets or fines, traffic violations and such
• Any loss that occurs outside the validity of the insurance
• Any rental contract of more than 45 days

Is the coverage subject to any type of restrictions?

• Any claim resulting from a direct breach of any of the terms and conditions of your rental agreement
• Any person under 21 or above 84 years of age
• Rentals that begin or end outside the insurance period, as indicated on the insurance certificate
• The policyholder must be designated as the main driver in the rental agreement
• The maximum amount that can be claimed for a single loss is US$ 4,500
• Damage to Recreational vehicles (RVs) / Motorhomes / Campervans (unless you have purchased a specific cover)
• Damage to vehicles provided by a peer-to-peer vehicle rental service platform or a subscription vehicle service is excluded (unless purchased specific coverage)..

Where do I have coverage?

• Here is the list of EU countries that are covered under our European policy: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, “European Russia” (the western part of the Russian Federation), Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Ukraine.

What are my obligations?

• When applying for your policy, you must exercise reasonable care to honestly and carefully answer any questions asked.
• You must take all reasonable steps to avoid or reduce any loss (for example, you must report accidents or other damage to your rental company nd to CarInsuRent as soon as reasonably possible).
• If you make a claim, you must provide the documents and other evidence that claims handlers need to process your claim.
• You must repay any sums to which you are not entitled (for example, if we pay your claim for an accident which is later compensated by a third party).
• You must not violate the terms of the rental agreement.

When and how do I make the payment?

• The premium must be paid in full before the policy start date. Payment can be made by credit or debit card or PayPal through our website

What is the start and end date of coverage?

• As set out in the insurance certificate, as agreed in the application process, your policy will cover you from the start date and time of your booking to the end date and time of your booking.

How do I cancel the contract?

• You can cancel your policy before the start date or within 14 days from your purchase through our customer service team.

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Car Hire Excess Insurance Europe Comparison: CarInsuRent vs. Cost at Counter

We compared and analyzed Super Collision Damage Waiver costs for a 7-day rental of a standard car class (July 1st – July 7th). The car rental insurance rates listed here are subject to change by the car rental companies without notice. For the most up-to-date pricing information, we encourage you to request a free online quote prior to booking. Our cheap car hire insurance for rental vehicles in Europe offers the same coverage at a 70% lower cost!

Avis Rental Car Insurance in Germany

Why Purchase Your Car Rental Insurance Plan Through CarInsuRent?

Most car rental companies offer a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) which can help lower your out-of-pocket costs if you are in an accident. However, both protections come with an excess or deductible that must be paid, and this can range from $500 to $2,500 or more.

A car hire excess insurance policy is a very affordable way to make sure that an excess or deductible payment doesn’t ruin your holiday. This coverage will reimburse you if you must pay the excess or deductible due to an accident with your hire car.

In Which Countries Is Your Excess Covered With CarInsuRent Europe Car Hire Excess Insurance?

Below is the list of EU countries that are covered under our European policy:

Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, “European Russia” (the western part of the Russian Federation), Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Ukraine.

Europcar Rental Car Insurance in Spain

CarInsuRent Car Rental Coverage Options in Europe

Car hire excess insurance in Europe typically includes mandatory liability coverage that is included in the rental fee. This type of coverage can be used if the car is damaged or if the renter causes harm to someone on the road. It is important to check the maximum protection cover amounts for material damages for the specific European country you plan to rent a car in, as they may vary. We encourage you to check out our specific best car hire excess insurance for the following destinations:

• Car Rental Insurance France

• Rental Car Insurance Germany

• Car Rental Insurance Iceland

• Car Rental Insurance Ireland

• Car Rental Insurance Italy

• Car Rental Insurance Spain

Other Options for Rental Car Insurance in Europe

Does Your Personal Car Insurance Cover Rental Cars in Europe?

No, your U.S. personal car insurance typically does not cover rental cars in Europe. Most standard U.S. policies provide coverage only within the U.S. and sometimes Canada, but not in Europe.

Credit Card Coverage

Some credit cards do offer coverage that offers zero-deductible collision coverage as well as some liability coverage. However, there can be numerous exclusions with this coverage, particularly if you are out of your home country.

It is always important to contact your credit card company before traveling to verify they offer coverage in the locations you are traveling to as well as any exclusions to coverage.

You may find that the coverage offered is not sufficient or offered where you are traveling. If your credit card does offer coverage, you can forego the CDW or LDW offered by your car rental company.

Collision Coverage Through Your Travel-Insurance Provider

In many cases, you can add-on collision coverage to a travel insurance policy. Coverage and exclusions will vary by policy so be sure to read it in full to make sure you understand what is covered and what is excluded.

What to Do When You are in a Rental Car Accident?

If you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car, there are certain steps you should follow to file a claim with the rental car insurance company. First, exchange personal information with the other driver, including name, address, license plate number, rental vehicle information, insurance company, and policy number, and document the accident with pictures and notes. If the other driver is at fault, you should get their contact and insurance information and call their insurance company directly to file a claim. If you are at fault or have non-collision damage, you can file a claim with the rental car insurance company. The process for filing a claim with the rental car insurance company may vary depending on the provider, but typically, you would need to provide details of the incident, including the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as any police report numbers, if applicable. Additionally, you may need to provide documentation of the damage, such as photographs or repair estimates.

For further advice, we encourage you to read our detailed guide to Handling a Rental Car Accident Efficiently.

How to File a Claim

If you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car, there are certain steps you should follow to file a claim with the rental car insurance company.

Required Documentation for Filing a Claim

• A copy of the Certificate of Insurance
• A copy of the rental agreement
• A copy of the police report if:
  • you got in an accident with a third party
  • It is legally mandated in the country of incident
  • your claim is about stolen personal belongings
• A copy of the damage report given by the rental company, detailing each cost incurred. Photographs of the damage are optional but may help ensure that the charges are reasonable.
• Detailed repair receipts, invoices or other documents showing the breakdown of the amount the rental company charged you for the accidental damage or loss
• A copy of your credit card statement that reflects your payment for the claimed damages
• A copy of the driver’s license of the person driving the car during the accident

What Documents Do I Need to File My Claim?

Tips for a Smooth Claims Process: Filing a claim can be a complicated and stressful process. The following tips can help ensure a smoother claims process:

• Document everything: Documenting all the details of the accident or loss, including taking photos and notes, can help speed up the claims process and reduce the possibility of disputes.
• Communication: Communication is key in any claim process. Keep thorough records of all communication with the insurer, and discuss your expectations for the claims process with the adjuster. You can also ask about the frequency of updates and the preferred type of communication.
• Avoid duplicate claims: Avoid submitting duplicate claims, as it slows down the claims payment process and creates confusion.
• Understand your coverage: It’s important to understand your coverage, including the limits and deductibles, before filing a claim. Understanding your policy can help ensure that you receive the maximum benefit to which you are entitled.
• Be patient: Claims processing can take time, so it’s important to be patient. 

By following these tips, you can help ensure a smoother claims process, and increase the chances of receiving the maximum benefit that you are entitled to under your policy.

Claims Process 

By following these tips, you can help ensure a smoother claims process, and increase the chances of receiving the maximum benefit that you are entitled to under your policy.

CarInsuRent and Non-UK Residents

Our car hire excess waiver insurance is often one of the best options for non-UK residents renting a vehicle while traveling in the UK or EU. Our policies are very affordable and can be a financial lifesaver if you are in an accident while renting a car in Europe or the UK. Check our prices now and make sure your rental car is fully covered while traveling.

CarInsuRent urges you to drive safely and stay insured!

Ways to Save Money on Your Car Rental in Europe

Book in advance: Secure your rental early to lock in better rates and avoid price hikes closer to your travel date.

Use discount codes: Search for promotional codes, loyalty programs, or credit card rewards that offer discounts on rental cars.

Opt for economy cars: Compact or economy vehicles are typically cheaper to rent and consume less fuel, saving you money on gas.

Avoid airport pickups: Rental agencies at airports often charge more. Look for locations away from airports for better deals.

Check for hidden fees: Be mindful of additional costs, such as one-way fees, extra insurance, or fuel surcharges, which can inflate the total cost.

For further information read our detailed guide about Navigating European Car Rentals

FAQs

Do I need Car Hire Excess Insurance if I’m Renting a Car in Europe?

Yes, when renting a car in Europe, you will generally need rental car insurance. Most European car rentals automatically include basic insurance, such as third-party liability, which covers damages to others. However, this typically doesn’t cover excess charges for damages to the rental vehicle itself. For comprehensive protection, it’s recommended to purchase car hire excess insurance, which covers the excess amount left to pay in case of accidents or damage. This type of insurance ensures you won’t face high out-of-pocket expenses for any damages to the rental car, making it an essential add-on for peace of mind during your trip.

Does my U.S. auto insurance cover rental cars in Europe?

In most cases, your U.S. auto insurance does not cover you when driving in Europe. U.S. policies typically only provide coverage within the U.S. and Canada, so you’ll need to obtain a separate international insurance policy or purchase coverage locally when renting a car in Europe.

Does Amex cover rental car insurance in Europe?

Yes, American Express (Amex) offers rental car insurance coverage in Europe, but there are some exceptions. The coverage typically includes collision and theft protection, and in some cases, Amex provides primary coverage. However, it is important to note that certain countries, like Italy, are excluded from coverage. To benefit from Amex’s rental car insurance, cardholders must check the specific terms of their card.

Does Visa cover rental car insurance in Europe?

Yes, Visa does offer rental car insurance coverage in Europe when you use an eligible Visa card to pay for the rental in full. This coverage typically includes protection against theft and damage (Collision Damage Waiver or CDW). However, Visa’s coverage does not include liability for damage to other vehicles, personal injury, or personal property. The coverage is usually valid for up to 31 days in most European countries, but it’s important to verify the specific terms and conditions of your card before renting.

Do I get Roadside Assistance with CarInsurent Rental Vehicle Damage Coverage?

CarInsuRent’s Rental Vehicle Damage Coverage does not include roadside assistance. However, it includes towing assistance. In the event of a breakdown or accident, the policy will cover towing as part of the repair costs, with coverage up to $500 for any fees charged by the rental company for towing services.

What is a CDW?

A Collision Damage Waiver or CDW is protection you can purchase when renting a vehicle in Europe that puts a cap on your financial obligation if the vehicle is damaged in a collision. It is not an insurance policy. A CDW will cover the cost to repair your rental vehicle as well as cover any loss of rental income for the rental agency if the vehicle is damaged in a collision, but it does come with a variety of exclusions so make sure you understand the limitations of these protection.

A CDW comes with an excess or deductible that you will have pay out of pocket if you are involved in an accident. It will vary by rental car company and the type of vehicle you rent, but in most cases, the excess or deductible will usually range between $500 and $2,500 but it can be much higher in some cases.

Is CDW Insurance Mandatory in Europe?

No, CDW is optional in Europe except for Italy where it is a required coverage. Most European car rental companies include liability coverage as part of their baseline rate and offer a CDW or LDW as optional coverages you can purchase.

Is LDW and CDW the same?

LDW stands for Loss Damage Waiver and an LDW if very similar to a CDW, but it includes theft protection (TP) as well. Some car rental companies only offer an LDW, eliminating the CDW. An LDW offers the same protections as a CDW, but it also includes protection if your rental vehicle is stolen.

What is the difference between CDW and excess waiver insurance?

A CDW offers protection for your rental vehicle, it will pay to repair the body of your rental vehicle if it is damaged in an accident. However, a CDW comes with an excess or deductible payment that you must pay out of pocket, and this can range from $500 to $2,500 or more.

Excess waiver insurance will refund the excess or deductible amount that you must pay on your CDW if you are involved in an accident up to the policies benefit ceiling. Excess waiver insurance is very affordable and can be a financial lifesaver if you are in an accident with your rental vehicle.

Which insurance is best for a rental car?

While your needs will vary depending on where you are going, in most cases, the best combination is a CDW with an excess waiver insurance policy. This will ensure the vehicle is repaired if it is damaged in an accident and you will not have to pay a huge excess or deductible out of pocket.

About the author:

Mark Vallet have over 15 years’ experience writing about insurance and automotive subjects. Mark have written for autos.com, carsdirect.com, YourMechanic.com, and is also a regular contributor to carinsurance.com, insure.com and insurance.com. His work has been published online at MSN, Yahoo Autos, Fox Business, Business Insider Australia and more.