Tips for Selecting Rental Truck Insurance

Renting a moving truck or cargo van can be a big help when you have a project or move that your personal vehicle just can’t handle on its own. But before you sign your rental contract and hit the road, it’s important that you understand the different types of truck/van rental insurance out there, as well as whether or not purchasing additional insurance is something you need to do. Consider the following about what you should know about rental truck insurance–

Your Personal Auto Insurance Coverage May Not Apply

The first thing that you should know when you are renting a moving truck or cargo van is that your personal auto insurance coverage may not apply, even if you’ve selected rental car coverage. This is because many insurance coverages, even coverage the applies to the rental of standard passenger cars, excludes cargo vehicles, vehicles over a certain weight, and trailers. This is also the case if you have coverage through your credit card; for example, Visa rental benefits don’t apply to any trucks or vans that seat more than eight people, and American Express’s coverage doesn’t apply to cargo vans or box trucks at all, according to information provided by nerdwallet. 

If you’re unsure of whether or not your coverage applies, it’s best to review your policy or call your insurer directly. The last thing that you want to worry about is assuming you have coverage, only to find out you’re not covered if you need it. 

Other Considerations When Selecting Rental Truck Insurance

Obviously, if your personal insurance coverage doesn’t apply, then you must purchase insurance coverage from the rental vehicle company. Not only is failing to do so is a bit reckless (you’d be responsible for any damages resulting from a collision out of pocket otherwise), but driving without insurance is against the law, too.

That being said, when making a decision about rental insurance, be sure to consider:

• How much liability coverage you have. At the very least, the insurance policy that you purchase will include liability coverage, which covers damages that you cause to others in a crash that’s your fault. Make sure that you have enough coverage. While Illinois only requires drivers to carry $50,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage and $20,000 in property damage coverage, these limits are fairly low. In reality, an accident can result in tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of damages. 
• Whether or not you’re covered. You should also double-check your policy to make sure that your medical bills are covered in the result of a crash, especially if the other driver doesn’t have insurance. 
• If your stuff is covered. Because you’re likely renting a moving truck or cargo van to transport your personal items, be sure to find out if there is any coverage for your things in the event of a crash or another accident type. 
• Coverage for emergencies and vehicle breakdowns. Finally, if you experience a flat tire, run out of gas, or have another issue while on the road, do you have any coverage? Be sure to ask the rental company at the time you reserve or pick up your vehicle

We’re Here to Answer Any Questions You Have

At Elite Truck Rental, our team has been serving customers in Illinois for decades and can answer all of your questions about van and truck rental insurance and policies. Reach out to us today by phone or make your reservation online now.