Car rental ?? - specifically LDW

[SiClone]

I've rented cars many times, and I always decline the additional Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) protection for damage to the vehicle because I use a platinum type credit card and have my own auto insurance.

In shopping around for our week long March '08 trip and pricing it out at the different rental companies and with several discount ID's and codes, I found the best price for a full size SUV to be $225 (total) through Alamo using the Wal-Mart code. However, if I use the Big Ten ID code at National, it would cost $241 (total) AND Free Loss Damage Waiver and automobile liability of $100,000, $300,000, $25,000 is included.

Is it me or would it be a "no brainer" to pay $16 more to get something that they charge $23/day (LDW) and to have their liability coverage?? Having an additional driver (using Wal-Mart code) isn't really an issue because DW might drive it one whole time the entire week.

What do you think???

 

[szymon]

Are you entitled to receive benefits under the 'big ten' contract? If you're not, and are using their code without permission the LDW will be voided since you'd be in violation of the rental agreement.

If you have an AMEX card you can purchase primary car rental coverage for $24.95/rental.

Szymon

 

[seashoreCM]

Loss/Damage Waiver may come in different flavors, for example Alamo has in the past offered only $500. worth (to cover your deductible) and $3000. worth (which historically covered most mishaps), or "full" (actually about $25,000 worth which covers most totalled rental cars). Or they do it the way insurance companies do, where you pay the first so much like a deductible.

Double check to see what flavor you are getting "free" and if it is not "full coverage" then they'll be happy to offer another flavor for more money.

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