24 October 2024

Cover your Hire Car for Winter - Make Sure You are Protected for Icy Conditions

Car hire excess insurance can reimburse you for damage picked up on icy roads

Most damage to a hire car is covered by the Collision Damage Waiver. But did you know that the most common areas to sustain damage, the tyres and windscreen, are not covered by the CDW?

During the winter months there is a greater chance of damage to cars caused by debris on the road. Fallen branches, grit and potholes can all be the guilty party. With ice, snow and rain, roads become more slippery and accidents are more frequent.

Punctures and chipped windscreens as a result of objects in the road or grit flying up are often excluded from CDW and therefore you would be liable for the full cost of any repair. The darker evenings can make it harder to spot hazards too!

There is often an excess on any Collision Damage Waiver - the excess is the first part of any claim you are liable for - so even though scratches are covered under the CDW, you would normally find yourself having to pay for minor damage. Excesses within Europe usually exceed £1000 so a small scratch or two can do a large amount of damage to your credit card.

An excess reimbursement policy will not only reimburse you for any excess you have to pay out but can also provide cover for the wheels, tyres, roof, underbody and glass elements of a hire - all common exclusions from car hire insurance.

Run a quote for independent car hire excess insurance with the MoneyMaxim comparison service and you will find a great value policy to cover your car hire this winter.

Whenever you hire a car it is important that you have the legally required equipment in the rental vehicle. For example, in some countries you must have reflective jackets for each person. In winter, snow chains may be compulsory and there are often rules regarding headlight use. Ask your rental company or check the AA website for guidance. Remember that it is the driver's responsibility to have the correct equipment NOT the hire car company.

If we can assist you with booking your car hire or with a quote for car hire excess insurance then please contact our friendly customer service team via the chat service available on our website.

Image courtesy of: Pixabay