“But I’m covered by my credit card, aren’t I?”
You’ve heard this line a thousand times. And if the renter declines your collision/loss damage waiver and ends up damaging the vehicle, you’re probably well aware of the hassle of trying to collect from a credit card insurance program.
“It’s like getting Congress to agree on drilling for oil in Alaska,” complains one operator, whose settlements on two claims stretched out to almost nine months. “They use stall tactics, blame it on the renter and turn over every rock looking for alternate coverage or a way to get out of paying the claim.”
In addition, credit card companies generally limit loss of use but will not allow the operator to pursue the customer for loss of use or diminished value.
How then can you and the customer avoid this sticky situation altogether?
The best solution is for the renter to take your collision/loss damage waiver. The enclosed chart, provided courtesy of Creditcards.com, outlines the specifics of rental car coverage from the major credit card companies. Understanding each card’s limits and exclusions can help your counter reps show the renter the value of CDW/LDW.
In addition, rental operators share their real-world tips on how to educate the customer about insurance issues at the front counter.
