Navigating European Rental Car Insurance: CDW, Theft, and Excess
Understanding insurance is key to a stress-free rental. You will be offered (or automatically included in) a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which reduces your financial liability for damage to the rental car. The critical number is the excess/deductible (can be €1000-€2500). You can pay extra daily to reduce this excess to zero, or often buy a separate "Excess Reimbursement" policy from a third-party insurer online for much cheaper, which refunds you if you have to pay the excess.
FAQ:
Q: Does my US credit card rental insurance work in Europe?
A: Many premium cards offer primary or secondary coverage, but there are often country exclusions (e.g., Italy, Ireland) and vehicle type restrictions. You must call your card issuer to confirm exact coverage for your destination.
Q: What is "Theft Protection (TP)"?