Understanding Car Rental Damage Waivers for Additional Drivers

If you are considering adding an additional driver for your rental car, it is important to understand whether your damage waiver or collision damage waiver (CDW) covers them. Often, the answer is yes, provided the additional driver is an authorized driver according to your rental agreement. Read on to learn more about how CDWs cover additional drivers and the steps you can take to ensure full protection.

What is a Damage Waiver or CDW?

A damage waiver or collision damage waiver is an insurance policy that a rental car company offers to cover the costs associated with damage to the vehicle if it is involved in an incident that is not your fault. This waiver is often included as an optional add-on during the rental process, and the cost is typically added to your rental agreement. However, it is important to note that some rental companies have their preferred terms, and understanding these is crucial.

Rental Contract Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions of your rental contract play a critical role in determining whether an additional driver is covered under the damage waiver. Your rental contract will clearly outline who is considered an authorized driver, and this information will be essential when you are planning to add an additional driver to your rental agreement.

For instance, Avis, a well-known rental car company, typically provides a preferred contract. Here is a sample excerpt from their preferred contract:

Your contract will outline who may drive the car. Important to know to whom the rental contract extends. Contracts differ. Know yours.

This excerpt underscores the importance of reviewing your rental contract to understand who is covered under the damage waiver. It is crucial to ensure that any additional drivers are explicitly listed as authorized drivers on your rental agreement, as this will determine their status under the damage waiver.

Adding an Additional Driver

If you are sure that you want to add an additional driver, the process is relatively straightforward. You should:

Check the rental contract: Review the terms of your rental agreement to determine if additional drivers are covered under the damage waiver. This is critical to ensure that you have the necessary coverage in place. Inform the rental agent: When you pick up your rental car, inform the rental agent about the additional driver. They can add the driver to the rental agreement, ensuring that they are covered under the damage waiver. Understand the coverage: While the damage waiver typically covers additional drivers, it is essential to know the extent of the coverage. Some CDWs cover certain types of damage or incidents, so it is important to understand the terms and restrictions.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that you and any additional drivers are covered under the damage waiver, providing peace of mind during your rental period.

Conclusion

In summary, a car rental's damage waiver typically covers additional drivers, provided they are listed as authorized drivers in your rental agreement. It is crucial to review the terms of your rental contract to understand who is covered and to ensure that additional drivers are explicitly added to the rental agreement.

By following the steps outlined above, you can easily navigate the process of adding an additional driver and ensure that full coverage is in place. This will save you the hassle and stress of potential unexpected costs and allow you to enjoy your rental car journey with peace of mind.