Can You Add Rental Car Insurance After an Accident?

When you rent a vehicle, the rental company typically offers insurance coverage options to protect you from financial liability in case of an accident. These options often include collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW) coverage. It's essential to review the terms and conditions of the rental agreement to ascertain the specific coverage provided.

If you didn't initially opt for rental car insurance and are involved in an accident, there are alternative avenues to explore:

1. Personal Auto Insurance: Review your existing auto insurance policy. Some policies may extend coverage to rental cars, but it's important to verify the specifics with your insurance provider.

2. Credit Card Coverage: Certain credit cards offer rental car insurance as a benefit if you use the card to pay for the rental. Check with your credit card company to determine if this coverage applies to your situation.

3. Liability Coverage: Even without collision coverage, you may still have liability coverage through your personal auto insurance or credit card. This coverage typically protects you if you cause damage or injury to someone else's property.