Shield Insurance Blog | Rental Car | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!
When it comes to car insurance, there are many questions that can arise. One common question that many people have is whether their insurance will cover a rental car if their own car breaks down. In this blog post, we will explore this topic and provide you with the information you need to know.
First and foremost, it is important to understand the different types of coverage available with auto insurance. The most basic type of coverage is liability insurance, which covers damages to other people and their property if you are at fault in an accident. This type of coverage does not typically extend to rental cars.
However, there are other types of coverage that may provide coverage in the event of a breakdown. One such coverage is called comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage is designed to cover damages to your own vehicle that are not the result of a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Some comprehensive policies may also include coverage for rental cars if your own car is in the shop for repairs due to a breakdown.
Another type of coverage is called roadside assistance or breakdown coverage. This coverage is designed to provide assistance if your car breaks down, such as towing, jump-starting a dead battery, or changing a flat tire. Some roadside assistance policies may also include coverage for a rental auto while your car is being repaired.
It is important to note that not all insurance carriers offer rental auto coverage in the event of a breakdown. It is always a good idea to review your policy or contact your insurance carrier to determine if this coverage is included in your policy. If it is not, you may have the option to add it for an additional premium.
If your insurance policy does not include rental car coverage for breakdowns, there are other options available to you. One option is to purchase rental car insurance from the rental car company itself. This type of insurance typically provides coverage for damages to the rental car and may also include liability coverage. However, it is essential to note that rental car insurance can be expensive and may duplicate coverage that you already have through your own auto insurance policy.
Another option is to consider purchasing a separate breakdown insurance policy. This type of policy is specifically designed to cover the costs associated with a breakdown, including the cost of a rental autowhile your car is being repaired. Breakdown insurance policies can be purchased from various insurance companies and may provide coverage for a wide range of breakdown-related expenses.
In conclusion, whether your insurance will cover a rental car if your car breaks down depends on the specific coverage you have in your policy. Liability insurance typically does not provide rental car coverage, but comprehensive coverage and roadside assistance or breakdown coverage may include this type of coverage. If your policy does not include rental car coverage, you may have the option to add it for an additional premium or consider purchasing rental car insurance from the rental car company or a separate breakdown insurance policy.
If you have any questions about your car insurance coverage or would like to explore your options for rental car coverage, it is always a good idea to contact your insurance carrier or speak with an insurance agent. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can provide you with a free quote and personalized advice. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.
