Does insurance cover rental car if car is stolen? This is a common question among renters who are concerned about the safety of their vehicles while on the road. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of rental car insurance and how it applies to stolen vehicles.
Rental car insurance is designed to provide coverage for damages and losses that may occur during the rental period. Typically, there are three types of coverage: liability insurance, collision damage waiver (CDW), and personal accident insurance. When it comes to stolen rental cars, the extent of coverage depends on the type of insurance policy you have chosen.
Liability insurance
Liability insurance covers damages and injuries you may cause to others while driving the rental car. If your rental car is stolen, liability insurance will not cover the theft itself. However, if the stolen car is involved in an accident, liability insurance will cover the damages you may be legally responsible for.
Collision damage waiver (CDW)
CDW is an optional coverage that waives your financial responsibility for damages to the rental car. If your rental car is stolen, CDW will cover the cost of repairs or replacement, minus any deductible you may have chosen. However, it is important to note that CDW does not cover personal belongings inside the car, so you may want to consider additional coverage for your belongings.
Personal accident insurance
Personal accident insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and lost wages in the event of an injury to you or your passengers while driving the rental car. If your rental car is stolen, personal accident insurance will not cover the theft itself, but it will still provide coverage for any injuries sustained during the incident.
Additional considerations
It is essential to read your rental car insurance policy carefully to understand the coverage details. Some policies may have exclusions or limitations that could affect the coverage for a stolen car. Additionally, you may want to consider purchasing additional coverage, such as loss damage waiver (LDW) or supplemental liability insurance (SLI), to ensure comprehensive protection.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Does insurance cover rental car if car is stolen?” depends on the type of insurance policy you have chosen. While liability insurance will cover damages you may cause to others, CDW and LDW can provide coverage for the stolen car itself. Always review your policy and consider additional coverage options to ensure you are adequately protected while renting a car.
