In other countries, at least in the majority targeted by Brazilian travelers, things work differently and you need to learn everything so you don't get caught by surprise on your trip. So, if you're traveling abroad, you need to know all the categories and how rental car insurance works, as you don't want any unforeseen circumstances.
In this sense, it is essential to prepare yourself to deal with these insurances, both financially and in terms of knowing what the real benefits are of taking them out and having them around when you use your car. And, incredible as it may seem, being insured is a less bureaucratic way of dealing with any problems and accidents that may happen to you and your rental car.
With this in mind, we've sorted out all the types of insurance and what you need to understand before renting a car. Stay with us and find out more. Happy reading!
CDW - Collision Damage Waiver
Collision Damage Waiver - or simply CDW - insurance is a service that will cover the costs of possible collisions. It's a very common insurance policy among car rental companies abroad, mainly because it's more affordable and very comprehensive for possible problems.
This insurance doesn't just cover big collisions that wreck the car and cause expensive accidents. Even small collisions that seem quite harmless can become a problem and a headache, as well as generating major costs, which are also covered by this service.
With this service it is possible to avoid these costs, which are not low, which is why it is often recommended as the best type of rental car insurance. One detail: it's worth asking if this insurance is already included in the car rental contract, as it is often offered as standard.
Oh, and it's worth remembering that to drive in other countries, you'll need your international driving license! Visit our post and find out more about how it works.
LDW - General Damage Waiver
A Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is an insurance policy that covers minor damage. Although we mentioned that crash insurance covers minor damage from collisions, it is still necessary for the damage to be caused by a collision accident, which does not cover defects, for example.
Minor defects such as a broken headlight, a scratch or even problems with the installation of the car are covered by this category of insurance. Of course, all these defects must be minor, this category does not cover extravagant or serious accidents.
Unfortunately, anyone who travels abroad and hires an international car is prone to minor breakdowns. Anda small breakdown doesn't always mean a small cost, especially when the car is a more expensive luxury model, which can generate a huge cost on your trip.
LI or PAT
This is a special kind of insurance, as it covers damage related to any vehicle accident or collision. Previous insurance only covered the vehicle, collisions involving two cars. However, this category also covers costs when a person is involved.
Which is great, especially in a country like the United States, where the entire healthcare system is private and very expensive. So if something happens that involves a person with the accident, things can get ugly, stressful and it's not going to be cheap in financial terms.
Because of the importance of this whole context involving third parties, it is essential that your rental car has this insurance. All the headaches associated with an accident with a foreigner can put an end to your trip, but with this insurance you can resolve things in a more practical and less expensive way.
PAE, WBS/PEC
The PAE, PEP and PEC series of insurances cover the insured against possible car break-ins and theft of valuables. When we travel to another country, it is common to be unaware of possible dangers, for example by parking in inappropriate places and putting the car at risk.
For this and other reasons, this series of insurances are essential and can save your property from possible dangers on a daily basis. It is the ideal insurance for those who travel and take important equipment such as cameras, phones, notebooks, work materials and even important documents with them.
But you have to pay attention to one detail: they don't cover possible inattention on the part of the driver. It only covers break-ins and intrusions into the car, so if the door is open and someone takes something, it won't be eligible for insurance.
It's worth mentioning that it depends on the broker for this insurance to be activated. So you need to talk a lot before taking out the insurance, whether or not you need to call in the local authorities, declare what you're taking in the vehicle, among other details.
RSP - Road Protection
RSP(Roadside Protection) is an important service for those who intend to travel a lot with their rental car, as it covers possible needs on the road, such as rescue and towing. Various emergencies can be covered by this rental car insurance.
In countries with large roads like the United States, where many can be remote, this service is indispensable for the safety of you and your family. It's a way of staying calm in unfamiliar territory and a country where there isn't as much support.
Among the various types of problems covered by this category are needs such as:
- Winch;
- Lack of fuel;
- Lost key;
- Low battery.
As well as any emergency that prevents your car from working properly. Therefore, we can say that this modality is indispensable if you are going to travel on long roads.
UMP and PAI
Two important insurances to cover medical expenses are UMP and PAI. And yes, these are rental car insurances abroad, but they function as medical coverage. UMP covers possible health expenses when the insured person does not have any kind of medical service.
PAI(Personal Assistance Insurance), on the other hand, aims to cover the insured in a more personal way, and can even be activated in the event of an accident-related death. A terrible subject, but possible, true and necessary. This way, we can be reassured about possible medical expenses.
Why take out international car insurance with Happy Tours?
And if you're planning a trip abroad and need good rental car insurance so you don't have a headache, then it's worth getting to know Happy Tours! Through our platform you can find out more about all the alternatives for renting a car abroad.
At Happy Tours, you not only choose the car rental company and model you need, but you also have the opportunity to take out different types of insurance for every need on your trip. We have a complete website where you can carry out a range of services such as:
- Identify the best car rental company;
- Compare prices;
- Choose your destination;
- Define how long you will keep the car;
- Contracting and choosing between the different insurance services.
Rental car insurance for international trips is essential, so don't put off studying and checking out this market that can be essential for your trip to run smoothly. Search with us for the best rental and all the other services that will enrich your experience.
Did you like the content and want to see more about car rental or travel itineraries? Now that you know how insurance works, be sure to check out the documents for renting a car. See you next time!
