Don't Break Rental Car Rules | Peter Greenberg Worldwide

Don’t Break Rental Car Rules

Many of you like to purchase additional car-rental coverage for peace of mind. But remember to always read the fine print—or you may end up voiding your policy altogether.

When you sign a “collision damage waiver” or “loss damage waiver” with a rental car company, you’re not really getting insurance—you’re getting a guarantee that the rental agency will cover damages.

But in exchange, you have to abide by certain rules.

There are some very common scenarios that can void your policy and leave you personally responsible for any costs.

That includes driving out of state without informing the company first, or violating the speed limit.

Other scenarios you may not have thought of include towing something behind your rental vehicle, like a boat or a trailer.

Even driving on unpaved roads can void the contract.

And, you know that rule about not letting someone who’s not on the policy drive the car?

Well, that can also include valets and parking attendants.

Bottom line: Restrictions vary between companies, so always read your contract.

If necessary, ask a rental agent to go through it with you to clarify what scenarios could nullify your rental contract.

For more, don’t miss our Driving & Rental Cars section.

Looking for more advice? Click here for more Daily Travel Tips.

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Sheila @GoVisitHawaii

As RobertKCole mentioned, Hawaii has some roads that at first glance make look okay, but are no-no's per the rental car companies. The map magazines provided by the rental car companies clearly identify the prohibited roads.

RobertKCole

Drivers in Hawaii need to be especially careful. Two major examples:

a) Ala Mauna Saddle Road on the Big Island
Not only does this road provide the only cross-island shortcut from the Kohala Coast to Hilo, but it also provides access to the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station on Mauna Kea. Located at 9,300 feet, this offers some of the best stargazing on the planet supported by a knowledgeable staff, but it is free. Most rental car companies outlaw Saddle Road.

b) Piilani Highway on Maui
This is the continuation of the spectacularly scenic Hana Highway that offers a shortcut back to the western side of Maui from Hana. The rental car companies were never very happy about people taking the Hana Highway, but now that both roads are paved, it is best to check with the rental car company to make certain that driving Piilani is OK. Most who take the road say that it is worth it - beautiful and a shorter trip that avoids back-tracking -but the word treacherous also occasionally pops into the description...

If one of the majors takes issue with your plans, try another. If that does not work, try one of the many local firms most are reputable - just check the social media sites to do a little homework first.

Taking the road less traveled is always the best route for experienced travelers - as long as you don't wind up paying a massive bill if something goes wrong with your rental car enroute...