There are many different
classes of rental cars: An "Economy" compact car is suitable for 2
to 3 people. These are usually 2 or 4-door, 4-seater cars, with
enough trunk space for 2 large roller suitcases, and are well suited
for 2 people. The "Compact" cars are almost always 4-door, 4-seater
cars which can comfortably hold 4 adults, although luggage space is
still limited to 2 large roller suitcases. These cars are often
available with air conditioning, and an automatic transmission. "MidSize"
and above cars are a good option for 4 adults. They are bigger and
well-equipped to handle 4 people. Any specific questions about cars
can be forwarded to AutoEurope.
You can purchase
insurance from your car rental company or from other sources which
will pay the rental company for their costs in repairing (damage) or
replacing (theft) the rental vehicle, plus for their loss for being
without a car. You can also sign a CDW form to legally waive the
insurance offer from the rental company. Many credit card companies
provide you with this insurance as one of the benefits of using the
card. Generally the credit card insurer requires that you pay for
the rental in full on your card, which means also paying for any
deposits or surcharges on that particular card. There may also be a
maximum time period, often 45 days, as well as a vehicle type
restriction. For example, some cards will cover a BMW but not a
Porsche, even though the BMW may be faster or more expensive. Check
with your credit card company on the terms of their provision of
c.d.w.
It is very important
that you read the precise terms and conditions of your credit card
agreement, most of which are available on-line from your credit card
company's site. Provided you are familiar with the conditions of
your card, this service can save you approximately 25% of the cost
of the rental.
If you do have an
accident, the CDW insurer will typically require you to advise them
within 48 hours. Make sure you take the telephone numbers of your
insurer (credit card company) with you. You will also need to call
the car rental company and give them details (location, time,
events) of the incident.It is important to keep a note of all the
people you talk to at both the credit card company and rental
agency, with names and dates.
