Does Farmers Insurance Cover Rental Cars? Explained

PUBLISHED ON Jun, 05 2023

img

When it comes to renting a car, understanding your insurance coverage is essential for peace of mind and financial protection. Farmers Insurance, a prominent insurance provider, offers a range of coverage options for policyholders. This article aims to explore whether Farmers Insurance covers rental cars, providing an in-depth analysis of their policies. We will delve into the specifics of rental car coverage, including what is covered, any limitations or exclusions, and the process for filing a claim. By shedding light on Farmers Insurance’s rental car policies, we aim to equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and ensure you’re adequately protected during your rental car experience.

Rental Car Coverage: The Basics

What rental car coverage generally includes

Rental car insurance typically includes several types of coverage. Here’s a general breakdown:

  1. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)/Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): This is not traditional insurance, but rather a waiver that says the rental car company will not come after you for collision costs in case the rental car is damaged or stolen. There may be exclusions, so it’s important to read the terms and conditions.
  2. Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP): This provides extra liability protection for costs associated with damage or injuries to other people or property if you’re at fault in an accident.
  3. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): This covers medical costs for you and your passengers if you’re involved in an accident.
  4. Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): This coverage protects personal belongings that are stolen from the rental car.
  5. Roadside Assistance: Some rental car companies offer roadside assistance coverage for emergencies such as a flat tire, lockouts, and towing.

It’s important to remember that these coverage options can vary depending on the rental car company and the country in which you’re renting. Additionally, you may already have some of these coverage types through your personal auto insurance policy or credit card benefits. Always read the terms and conditions carefully and check with your own insurance provider or credit card company before opting for additional rental car coverage.

Importance and benefits of having rental car coverage

Having rental car coverage can provide several key benefits and serve as an important safeguard in certain circumstances. Here are a few reasons why it’s crucial:

  1. Financial Protection: In the event of an accident or theft, having rental car insurance can save you from having to pay out of pocket for repair or replacement costs.
  2. Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re covered can make your rental experience more relaxing and enjoyable. You won’t have to worry about potential accidents or incidents impacting your finances.
  3. Personal Effects Coverage: If your personal belongings are stolen from the rental vehicle, rental car insurance can provide coverage, which your regular auto insurance might not offer.
  4. Gap Coverage: Rental car companies may charge fees for “loss of use” (when the car can’t be rented out while it’s being repaired) and diminished value (the reduction in a vehicle’s value after an accident). Many regular insurance policies don’t cover these charges, but some rental car insurance does.

Remember, before purchasing rental car insurance, it’s important to check your existing auto insurance policy and any coverage provided by your credit card company to avoid buying unnecessary coverage. It’s also crucial to understand the details of any rental car coverage you consider, as policies and protections can vary widely.

Farmers Insurance’s Rental Car Insurance Policies

Farmers Insurance, a well-known insurance provider, offers various coverage options for rental cars under certain conditions. Here is a general overview of Farmers Insurance’s rental car insurance policies:

  1. Personal Auto Policy Extension: If you have a personal auto insurance policy with Farmers Insurance, your coverage typically extends to rental cars. This means that the coverages you have for your personal vehicle, such as liability, collision, and comprehensive, may apply to the rental car, subject to the terms and conditions of your policy.
  2. Rental Reimbursement Coverage: Farmers Insurance offers rental reimbursement coverage as an optional add-on to your policy. This coverage helps pay for the cost of a rental car if your insured vehicle is being repaired as part of a covered claim. It is important to note that this coverage is meant for temporary transportation during the repair period and does not apply to personal use rentals.
  3. International Rental Coverage: Coverage for rental cars outside of the United States may differ. It is essential to contact Farmers Insurance directly to understand how your policy applies to international rentals.
  4. Limitations and Exclusions: Farmers Insurance’s coverage for rental cars may have certain limitations and exclusions. For example, it may not extend to rental cars used for commercial purposes or rentals obtained through ride-sharing services. Additionally, fees charged by rental car companies, such as “loss of use” fees, may not be covered.
  5. Claims Process: If you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car, you would typically follow the same claims process as you would for an incident involving your own vehicle. It is crucial to promptly report the accident to Farmers Insurance and provide all the necessary information. You can use this link if you have an insurance with Geico and you need to report a claim.

Remember, the specific details of your coverage can vary depending on the terms of your policy. It is always recommended to contact Farmers Insurance directly or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their rental car insurance policies.

10 Reasons to Consider CarInsuRent Car Rental Excess Insurance

  1. Zero Deductible – In the event of an accident, you do not want to pay the deductible. Your rental car would also be subject to the high deductible on your auto insurance. Paying for car rental excess insurance and knowing you won’t be responsible for more than that amount may give you piece of mind.
  2. Make no claim on your personal insurance. Perhaps you’ve had a claim recently and don’t want your premium to skyrocket. You might want to err on the side of caution and purchase insurance because filing two claims in a single year will dramatically increase your insurance costs.
  3. Coverage in Foreign Countries: If you’re traveling internationally, your personal auto insurance policy may not provide coverage. Rental car insurance ensures you’re covered in these situations.
  4. Theft Protection: If the rental car is stolen, rental car insurance could cover the cost of the stolen vehicle.
  5. Protection Against Vandalism: Car rental insurance can cover the cost of repairs if the car is vandalized.
  6. Gap Coverage: Car rental companies may charge fees for “loss of use” and diminished value if their car gets damaged. These charges might not be covered by your regular insurance, but can be covered by rental car insurance.
  7. Personal Effects Coverage: This covers the theft of personal items from the rental car.
  8. Convenience and Peace of Mind: By opting for car rental insurance, you can avoid dealing with your own insurance company, and you don’t have to worry about your premiums increasing in case of an accident.
  9. Coverage in Case of Insufficient Personal Auto Insurance: If your personal auto insurance has a high deductible or low limits, rental car insurance can provide additional protection. If you are renting a pricey car, keep in mind that the amount of coverage provided by your Geico auto insurance is limited to the policy’s maximum. For your enjoyable Corvette rental weekend, you might want to increase your coverage. Check your coverage limits frequently.
  10. Coverage for Additional Drivers: If you plan to share the driving responsibilities with someone else during your rental period, rental insurance can ensure that all drivers are covered.

See How Much You Can Save on Your Car Rental Insurance

Get Started

It is important to research and understand the coverage options and costs to make an informed decision that best fits your needs. CarInsuRent car hire excess insurance starts from as low as $6.49 per day* to $94.90 for an annual car hire excess insurance policy. Our policies covers the excess on damage and theft up to €2,500 and provide full protection that Includes single vehicle damage, roof and undercarriage damage, auto glass and widescreen damagetowing expenses, misfuelling, loss of car key and tire damage. We cover multiple drivers between the ages of 21 and 84 years.

FAQ

Does Farmers Insurance Auto Policy Cover Rental Cars?

Yes, Farmers Insurance auto policy generally covers rental cars under certain conditions.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Travel Tips and Guides

Super Collision Damage Waiver: A Must-Read Guide

Gil Farkash

Verified writer Read More

Rental Car Theft Protection Insurance Explained

Gil Farkash

Verified writer Read More

Essential Guide to International Car Rental Insurance: Coverage and Costs

Gil Farkash

Verified writer Read More

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I buy a plan for just one day?

Yes. Insurance for a single day is available.

Can I buy a plan for part of my rental only?

No. We provide a single journey plan. You are covered from the time you pick up the rental car up to the time you return it or on the last date written on your Certificate of Insurance, whichever comes first.

Can I buy a plan when I pick up my rental car?

No. You should purchase a policy before starting your travel.

Find the answers you’re looking for to the most frequently asked car hire insurance questions as well as other questions relating to our products and services.

Visit the FAQ page