TRY drhowell.net SEARCH

SAVING ON CAR INSURANCE WHEN YOU TRAVEL

With so many options at the car rental counter, it may be tempting to buy whatever insurance protection is available to safeguard your trip. But many travelers don't realize they're more than likely duplicating coverage they already have.

Not only does a driver's insurance policy protect against theft or damages to a rental vehicle, but often so does a major credit card used to pay the rental fee.

The best thing to do is to call your insurance agent and credit card company in advance. Just because you've used a gold or platinum card in the past, don't assume that it still offers the same protection plans — the cards' insurance benefits can change. [...]

TRY drhowell.net SEARCH

For additional information, visit http://www.dtag.com or http://www.thrifty.com.

Thrifty Car Rental, a subsidiary of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc. is thawing the winter snow and putting a little extra spring in travelers' footsteps.

Beginning January 15, 2008, customers can earn triple frequent flyer miles/points with eight airlines at participating Thrifty Car Rental locations worldwide. The offer is valid on rentals booked in advance on THRIFTY.com from January 15, 2008 through May 15, 2008. [...]

TRY drhowell.net SEARCH

Many credit cards provide some coverage for collision and theft. That insurance usually piggy-backs onto your personal auto policy. Learn what insurance you have before you reach the car rental counter.

Many consumers waste money buying car rental insurance they don't need, says the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

But some drivers neglect to buy coverage that they should get. They wind up placing themselves at risk.

"Check your auto insurance policy in advance," said Jane Cline, insurance commissioner of W.Va.

The exclusions section should list property, perils, persons, or situations not covered. In that section or the coverages section, look for reference to "non-owned auto."[...]

TRY drhowell.net SEARCH

When you find a great deal on a car rental, the rate quickly increases when taxes, fees and options are added.

The rate also increases dramatically if you buy insurance through the rental company.

The good news is that you're probably already covered by auto insurance or when you pay with a major credit card for the Collision Damage Waiver.

Also known as Loss Damage Waiver, the CDW covers the cost of the rental car if it's damaged or stolen.

To activate this coverage, you must decline CDW coverage from the rental company.

Rates typically range from $10 to $20 per day if you buy it through a rental agency.[...read more...]