Does Your Auto Insurance Cover Rental Cars, Road Trips, or Towing?

When planning a road trip, renting a car, or dealing with a breakdown, it’s natural to wonder how your auto insurance fits into the picture. These situations often come with unexpected questions about coverage and understanding how your policy applies can help you make informed decisions before hitting the road.

Rental Cars

If you rent a car for personal use, your existing auto insurance policy may extend to that rental. In many cases, the same coverage and deductibles that apply to your vehicle also apply to a rental car. This typically includes liability, collision and comprehensive coverage, if those are part of your policy.

If you only carry liability coverage on your personal vehicle, you may not have coverage for damage to the rental car. Rental companies often offer insurance options, which can be worth considering depending on your situation.

Before declining or accepting rental car insurance, it’s a good idea to review your policy or speak with your agent. Credit card companies may also offer rental car coverage if you use their card to pay for the rental, but this varies by issuer and card type.

Road Trips

You might drive longer distances, in unfamiliar areas, or with more passengers and luggage than usual. If you plan to use a borrowed or rented vehicle, or if someone else will be driving your car, it’s worth checking how your policy handles those scenarios.

Some policies may restrict who can drive your vehicle or how long a non-listed driver can be covered. If you’re planning a long trip or sharing driving duties, it’s helpful to clarify these details ahead of time.

Towing and Roadside Assistance

Towing and roadside assistance endorsements are often available as optional add-ons and can be helpful if you experience a flat tire, dead battery or mechanical breakdown far from home.

If your policy includes roadside assistance, it may cover towing to the nearest repair facility, fuel delivery, lockout services and more. The specifics vary by insurer and policy, so it’s important to know what’s included and what limits may apply.

Learn More

Do you have questions about your current coverage or want to explore your options? Contact your agent at Affordable Insurance to review your policy and discuss what’s right for your needs.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.