Michiganders planning a final summer getaway in the continental United States before school starts likely don’t have to buy rental car insurance when picking up their vehicle. According to the Insurance Alliance of Michigan (IAM), most auto insurance policies will cover rental cars too.
“If you have questions about what is or is not covered under your auto insurance policy, call your insurance company or independent agent. They’re available to answer your call – day or night – to tackle everything from routine claims to disasters,” said Tricia Kinley, executive director of the Insurance Alliance of Michigan. “Our member companies are here to help connect consumers with the resources and expertise they need to make informed decisions.”
Rental car companies typically offer four different types of coverage, all of which are likely covered by your auto insurance policy:
Loss-damage waiver or collision damage waiver
Liability coverage
Personal accident insurance
Personal effects coverage
When choosing a rental car, IAM recommends picking one that’s large enough to both fit your family and their luggage. For families traveling with young children, be sure you have enough car seats. Child safety seats reduce fatal injuries to infants by 71% and toddlers by 54%, according to AAA Michigan.
“It’s estimated that 45% of Americans will travel somewhere by car this summer, and whether that’s an in-state road trip in a rental car or a trip out-of-state, we encourage all drivers to follow the rules of the road,” Kinley said. “If you need to contact your insurance company, rest easy knowing they’re there when disaster strikes to help their neighbors when they need them the most.”