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 15. Do I always need to buy insurance when I rent a car? Am I not covered by my own policy?

Most personal auto policies extend whatever coverage you have on your own vehicle to the rental vehicle if the rental vehicle is a private passenger car, pickup truck, van, or trailer. However, with regard to damage to the rental auto, the rental car company might be able to charge fees for losses or damages to the vehicle that are no covered by your insurance policy. Therefore, it is often a wise idea to purchase the rental company’s "collision damage waiver." Be sure to check with your independent insurance agent on coverage prior to renting a vehicle.

If you do not have your own insurance, be aware that many car rental liability policies cover you, at best, only at the state's required minimum. Also, you should buy the collision and comprehensive coverage offered by the rental company for your own protection. Plus, do not buy a collision damage waiver (CDW) from the rental company assuming it is insurance. A CDW simply releases you from financial responsibility if you damage the vehicle you are renting, provided you comply with the terms of the rental contract. But those terms can vary considerably, and CDWs are not state-regulated, which means they are technically not insurance.

It's always a good idea to review your policy before renting a vehicle and, if necessary, contact your agent for clarification.

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