Thrifty Car Rental Insurance: Understanding Your Coverage Choices
PUBLISHED ON May, 18 2023
UPDATED ON Apr, 14 2026
Renting a car from Thrifty Car Rental offers convenience and flexibility for travelers, but it’s essential to understand the insurance options available to ensure a smooth and worry-free rental experience. In this article, we will explore Thrifty Car Rental’s insurance offerings and provide valuable insights into making informed decisions when it comes to protecting yourself and the rental vehicle. By understanding the various insurance options, coverage details, and considerations, you can confidently choose the right insurance coverage that aligns with your needs and provides peace of mind during your rental period with Thrifty Car Rental.
Thrifty Car Rental aims to provide customers with a range of insurance options to cater to different preferences and travel requirements. From Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) to liability insurance and additional coverage choices, we will delve into the details of each option, including coverage inclusions, potential liabilities, and any additional benefits they may offer. By understanding these insurance offerings, you can make an informed decision and select the most suitable coverage for your specific rental needs.
Throughout this article, we will also provide tips for evaluating your insurance needs, understanding the policy terms and conditions, and considering cost-saving options. It’s crucial to weigh the benefits of the insurance coverage against your personal risk tolerance, budget, and any existing insurance policies you may have. By following these recommendations, you can navigate Thrifty Car Rental’s insurance options confidently and ensure you have the necessary coverage to protect yourself and the rental vehicle during your journey.
Stay tuned as we unravel the details of Thrifty Car Rental’s insurance options, providing you with the knowledge and insights you need to make informed decisions and enjoy a worry-free car rental experience.
Types of Insurance Offered by Thrifty Car Rental
Thrifty Car Rental provides various insurance options to cater to the needs of their customers. Understanding these insurance offerings will help you choose the coverage that best suits your requirements and provides adequate protection during your rental period. Here are the main types of insurance offered by Thrifty Car Rental:
A. Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
- Coverage details and inclusions: LDW covers the cost of repairs or replacement of the rental vehicle in case of rental car damage, theft, or loss. It typically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection. LDW may have an excess or deductible amount, which is the maximum amount you would be responsible for in case of damage or theft.
- Excess amount and potential financial liability: It’s important to review the specific excess amount associated with LDW and consider whether it is affordable for you in case of an incident. Thrifty Car Rental may offer options to reduce the excess or eliminate it altogether for an additional fee.
B. Liability Insurance
- Coverage for bodily injury and property damage: Liability insurance provides protection against claims made by third parties for bodily injury or property damage caused by the rental vehicle. It helps cover legal and financial obligations up to the policy limits.
- Limits and requirements: Thrifty Car Rental’s liability insurance will have specific coverage limits and may vary depending on the rental location. It’s crucial to understand the policy limits and any requirements set by the rental company or local regulations.
C. Personal Accident Insurance
- Protection for medical expenses and accidental death: Personal Accident Insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and accidental death resulting from an accident during the rental period. It offers additional financial protection for you and your passengers in the event of an unforeseen incident.
- Benefits and considerations: Review the coverage limits and benefits provided by Thrifty Car Rental’s Personal Accident Insurance. Consider whether this coverage is necessary based on your personal circumstances, existing insurance coverage, and the nature of your travel.
Thrifty Car Rental may also offer additional coverage options, such as Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) or roadside assistance, to provide enhanced protection and convenience during your rental. Understanding these options and their associated costs will help you make an informed decision regarding the level of coverage that suits your needs and budget.
By familiarizing yourself with the types of insurance offered by Thrifty Car Rental, you can choose the coverage that provides peace of mind and safeguards your rental experience. Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of each insurance option, ask for clarifications if needed, and consider any existing insurance coverage you may have to avoid duplication of benefits.
Thrifty Car Rental Insurance Cost
The cost of insurance from Thrifty Car Rental can vary depending on several factors, including the location, duration of the rental, type of coverage selected, and any additional options or add-ons chosen. Here are some key considerations that can influence the cost of Thrifty Car Rental insurance:
- Location: The cost of insurance can vary based on the country or specific location where you rent the vehicle. Insurance rates may differ depending on local regulations, risk assessment, and insurance market conditions.
- Rental Duration: The duration of your rental can impact the insurance cost. Short-term rentals, such as daily or weekly, may have a different pricing structure compared to long-term rentals, such as monthly rentals. Some rental companies may offer discounted rates for longer rental periods.
- Type of Coverage: The specific type of insurance coverage you choose will affect the cost. Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and liability insurance are typically included in the rental price, but additional coverage options like Personal Accident Insurance or Supplemental Liability Insurance may involve additional costs.
- Additional Options: Thrifty Car Rental may offer additional options or add-ons, such as roadside assistance or additional driver coverage, which can impact the overall cost of the insurance package. These options are typically available for an extra fee.
Thrifty offer 4 levels of coverage –
- Basic – This include Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) that Covers the car 100% with zero financial responsibility for the vehicle, zero out-of-pocket expenses. Thrifty LDW covers all vehicle damage to Thrifty rental car, regardless of fault, provided the renter is not in violation of the Rental Agreement. This coverage also provide theft protection at no additional cost at US locations. Outside of the US, Theft Protection may not be included in LDW, but offered as a separate optional product. Additional charges would apply to add Theft Protection to the rental. The basic coverage also include Premium Emergency Roadside Service (PERS) (24/7 premium roadside service).
- Standard – The same LDW coverage as “Basic” + Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) – Up to $1 million in liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage + Premium Emergency Roadside Service (PERS).
- Complete – The same LDW coverage as “Basic” + Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) – Up to $1 million in liability coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage + Premium Emergency Roadside Service (PERS) + Personal Effects Coverage & Personal Accident Insurance (PEC/PAI) – Cash payment for property loss and accidental injury or death.
To obtain the precise cost of insurance from Thrifty Car Rental, it is advisable to request a quote or contact their customer service directly. By providing specific rental details and preferences, such as location, dates, and desired coverage, Thrifty Car Rental can provide you with an accurate estimate of the insurance cost associated with your rental.
Thrifty Australia Excess Reduction – 1 week rental December 2024
How Does CarInsuRent Differ from Thrifty LDW?
- CarInsuRent car hire excess insurance starts from as low as $8.49 per day* to $129.90 for an annual car hire excess insurance policy. Thrifty LDW for damage & theft waiver Can be purchased separately for US$ 22.45 per day. Note that if you purchase Thrifty LDW for Damage you are still liable for excess £100.
- Thrifty Roadside Assistance Protection covers tyre & glass / Replacement keys costs can be purchased separately for an extra fee of US$ 5.39 per day. CarInsuRent car hire excess waiver insurance covers damage to the rental car’s windscreen, auto glass, tyres, undercarriage or roof and is included at the price of the policy.
- CarInsuRent covers baggage and personal belongings – up to US$ 1,500 included at the price.
- CarInsuRent covers the replacement of a lost or stolen Rental Car key.
- CarInsuRent covers exorbitant rental company fees added to your repair bill – including fees for loss of use, processing, relocation and towing.
- CarInsuRent covers single-vehicle accidents – claim even if the damage or theft to your car was not your fault.
- CarInsuRent offers annual worldwide car hire excess Insurance for hiring cars around the world for up to 45 days.
* Price is calculated based on 10 days of rental.
Thrifty LDW cost
Here’s How CarInsuRent Car Hire Excess Insurance saved Our Client a Significant Amount of Money
Mr. Assael, rented a Mercedes Vito for 7 days in Wien airport, Austria. Despite declining the rental company’s insurance coverage due to its high cost, Mr. Assael decided to purchase standalone car hire excess insurance from CarInsuRent after reading about its benefits.
Copy of Mr. Assael Car Hire Excess Policy
While Mr. Assael parked the car, he slightly scratched the the rental vehicle.
Thrifty Damage to Rental Car
Unfortunately, Thrifty charged Mr. Assael EUR 1,148.41 for the damage.
Thrifty Damage to Rental Car
However, Mr. Assael had purchased car hire excess insurance, which covered the excess amount he would have to pay in such situations. As a result, he was able to file a claim with CarInsuRent, and we reimbursed him for the repair costs incurred by the rental company. This saved Mr. Mr. Assael more than a thousand Euros, as he only had to pay US$ 44.90 for the car hire excess coverage instead of the full repair bill.
Amazing service. always efficient, friendly, responsive. I got my payment within days of submission. Bill is warm. A pleasure to work with them. highly recommended. I feel safe with them.
How Much Could You Save on Car Hire Excess Insurance for Your Thrifty Car hire?
Car hire excess insurance for 10 days rental in Europe with CarInsuRent will cost US$64.90 compared to US$ 349.90 when purchasing the equivalent coverage from Thrifty. Total potential saving: US$ 285.
How to File a Claim
What to Do in Case of an Accident or Damage – 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.
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 an insurance 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 insurance 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 insurance 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 insurance policy.
Claims Process
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In conclusion, having car rental insurance with Thrifty is not mandatory. Thrifty offers several auto insurance products to cover your rental car. While LDW is a part of your rental fee, there is an excess. You purchase Excess Protection, a package offered by Thrifty, that lowers the excess for the majority of cars to zero. The daily fee for this service is US$ 34.99.
Thrifty’s LDW can be the best option if you want the greatest level of comfort and are willing to pay for it. You can save money by shopping around and buy car rental insurance online for as low as $8.49 per day to $129.90 for an annual policy.
Before choosing an Thrifty rental car insurance policy, you should confirm what level of coverage is included with your personal auto insurance policy or the credit card you used to reserve the vehicle. By doing this, you can avoid paying for the same coverage more than once.
Ultimately, understanding the different types of insurance available to you and making an informed decision can help you have a stress-free and affordable car rental experience with Thrifty.
See How Much You Can Save on Your Car Rental Insurance
Get StartedIn conclusion, this article aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision regarding Thrifty’s Loss Damage Waiver options. By understanding the coverage, costs, and personal considerations, you can confidently select the LDW option that aligns with your needs and enjoy a worry-free car rental experience with Thrifty.
Frequently Asked Question
How much is thrifty car rental insurance?
Thrifty insurance rates can vary based on factors such as rental location, vehicle type, and rental duration. As a general guideline, typical daily rates for Thrifty’s insurance options in the United States are: LDW: Approximately $34.99 per day; SLI: Around $14.24 per day; Personal Protection Package (combining PAI and PEC): About $6.99 per day.
Does thrifty car rental include insurance?
Thrifty Car Rental offers various optional insurance and protection plans, but insurance is not automatically included in the base rental price.
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I recently rented a car from thrifty in Italy. When they asked if I want to upgrade the coverage I told them I have my own through progressive and the credit card I had also offered insurance.
They told me I couldn’t use either because Italy requires you to purchase it.
I argued that I already had it but they refused to let me use what I already have so I had to buy their coverage at the rental front desk.
I now found out that they were being dishonest and that they most likely were trying to get the cash bonus from selling me the extra insurance.
Is there anything I can do to get the money back now that I already signed off on everything?
I’m assuming not but wanted to see if you encountered this position.
Unfortunately, we see this type of complaint from Italy quite often.
Italy does require basic mandatory insurance to be included with the rental, but that does NOT automatically mean you must buy the expensive additional coverage sold at the counter. In many cases, customers can legally decline the upsell and rely on independent excess insurance or certain credit card protections instead.
Getting the money back after signing is difficult, but not always impossible. If you believe you were misled, you can:
* Complain directly to Thrifty corporate
* Dispute the charge with your credit card if you have evidence
* File a complaint with the European Consumer Centre
Keep all paperwork and emails. Unfortunately, aggressive insurance upselling in Italy is a very common issue reported by travelers.
What factors do you consider most important when choosing insurance coverage for your Thrifty car rental?
When selecting insurance coverage for a Thrifty car rental, consider the following factors:
* Cost-Effectiveness: Compare standalone insurance providers with Thrifty’s in-house options. Standalone policies often offer comprehensive coverage at lower prices.
* Personal Risk Tolerance: Assess how much liability you are comfortable taking on. Thrifty’s additional coverage options can reduce your financial risk during the rental period.
* Existing Policies: Check if your personal car insurance or credit card offers rental coverage to avoid paying for redundant protections.
* Rental Location: Coverage needs may vary by country or region. For example, insurance requirements differ significantly between the U.S., Europe, and other international destinations.
Hi,
I already purchased Collision Damage Plan from Expedia.
Is it madatory to purchase LDW separately other than Collision Damage Plan?
Thank you for taking the time to contact us.
If you have CDW, you don’t need to purchase LDW.
We do recommend that you purchase car rental excess insurance.
The CarInsuRent Team