Star Tribune, Minneapolis, John Ewoldt Column: More on Rental Car ...

By John Ewoldt, Star Tribune, Minneapolis

Nov. 1--Readers sent in lots of questions and comments about last week's column (www.startribune.com/65840922.html) on refusing insurance at the car rental counter. I wrote that anyone with Minnesota car insurance is automatically covered for $35,000 worth of coverage for loss of use, collision damage and liability. Here are additional questions from readers.

Q You mentioned that anyone with an American Express card can pay $20 per rental for $75,000 worth of primary coverage. How does it work?

A Call the toll-free number on the back of your Amex card or 1-800-437-9209 in advance of your rental to sign up for Premium Car Rental protection. Every time you rent a car and pay for it with your Amex, it will trigger the extra coverage and $20 fee. You'll have to call in advance of a rental to cancel future coverage.

Q Does it cover everything that property damage coverage does?

A It covers protection against loss, theft and damage, but not liability. Property damage from your Minnesota auto policy coverage backs you up for that.

Q What can non-car owners who don't have auto insurance do to avoid the $20 per day insurance through the car rental company?

A You could buy the primary insurance through American Express, but then you won't have liability coverage. Check with other credit cards you have to see if they offer primary coverage you can purchase. You can purchase a "named non-owner" policy from an auto insurance agent; that policy will include liability but not comprehensive or collision. It's probably easier to buy insurance from the rental car company, but not necessarily cheaper.

Q Does the automatic coverage through a Minnesota policy apply when renting a car in Mexico or overseas?

A No, the coverage is generally only valid in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. territories. Check with your insurance agent. Coverage in other countries can be purchased at the rental counter. Check with your credit cards for primary or secondary coverage in other countries. The Amex Premium plan offers primary coverage except in six countries.

...

Read more...

Get Car Insurance Quote




Long Beach Car insurance - News


Auto Club Speedway's flying contraption is a top 10 finisher at Red Bull Flugtag
Auto Club Speedway's flying contraption is a top 10 finisher at Red Bull FlugtagA NASCAR-styled flying contraption created by the Auto Club Speedway team from Fontana soared into Rainbow Harbor in Long Beach on Saturday at

This OC event is sponsored by...
On the other hand, GEICO car insurance sees it as an opportunity to reach a few hundred thousand potential customers. To get even more national names at the and more »

Comparing city managers' pay in LA County
Comparing city managers' pay in LA CountyLos Angeles and Long Beach, whose mayors oversee much of the executive staff, paid their administrators comparatively low amounts, considering the size of and more »

Tourism lets entrepreneurs find a niche to make a living off their passions
“You have to pace yourself, the amount of time you spend on the water,” adds Bill, who grew up living his summers on Long Beach Island — visiting from

Ice Cream & eggs
Ice Cream & eggsLONG BEACH - The Ilwaco High School Band needs your help with raising money for a trip later this year. They are holding car washes in the parking lot at