Leasing a rental vehicle can be a fantastic way to get around, save money, and enjoy some independence when traveling. Unfortunately, many renters find themselves the victims of a rental car damage scam. This scam is typically perpetrated by overzealous rental agents, who are incentivized to or ‘push’ them to purchase insurance from the rental company. The scam works by agents convincing the renter that if they do not purchase the insurance, they will be responsible for any damages that occur to the car during the rental period. The reality is that renters are only responsible for damages caused by themselves or their passengers. In the U.S., a renter’s personal car insurance typically covers any damage to the rental vehicle in case of an accident—in other countries they might be required to purchase insurance from the rental company. It is also important to note that damage to the car caused by regular wear-and-tear is typically not the responsibility of the renter. The best way to avoid a rental car damage scam is to always read the rental agreement thoroughly before signing it.
Familiarize yourself with the car rental company’s policies and know exactly what kind of coverage you are getting. Additionally, when the rental agent offers additional insurance, politely explain that you have already taken care of that through your own car insurance policy. When picking up the car, be sure to perform a thorough inspection. Make sure to take photos and/or video of the entire vehicle so that if any damage is discovered when you return the car, you have valuable evidence to prove that it was already there when you picked it up. Before you leave, make sure to read the car’s documentation closely and be sure to ask for a receipt for anything you were asked to pay for. In order to get the most out of your rental car experience, keep an eye out for any possible fraud. Always read the agreement before signing, perform a thorough inspection and never give out your personal information over the phone to any unknown party. By taking the time to be aware of potential scams, you can rest assured that you and your vehicle are safe and secure during your rental period.