Man, I feel this. “Loss of use” is like the fine print’s evil twin—nobody warns you until it’s too late. I’ve had my share of run-ins with Montana wildlife (and, uh, a mailbox or two), and every time I rent a car, I get that little voice in my head saying, “You’re gonna regret skipping the extra coverage.” But then I see the price and think, nah, I’ll risk it.
Last time, a hailstorm turned my rental into a golf ball overnight. Insurance covered the dents, but not the days it sat in the shop. Ended up paying more than the rental itself. Still stings.
Is it just me, or does it feel like rental companies are just waiting for you to mess up? Anyone ever actually gotten out of a “loss of use” charge, or is it just part of the Montana rental car experience?
Honestly, I get why it feels like a trap, but I’ve actually dodged “loss of use” charges a couple times. Here’s what’s worked for me:
- Check if your credit card covers it. Some do, but you have to decline the rental company’s insurance.
- Personal auto insurance sometimes extends to rentals, including loss of use (depends on your policy, though).
- Document everything—photos, timestamps, even weather reports if it’s a hailstorm. Helps if you need to dispute charges.
Rental companies definitely push the extra coverage, but with the right prep, you don’t always have to pay up. It’s a hassle, but not impossible.
Document everything—photos, timestamps, even weather reports if it’s a hailstorm. Helps if you need to dispute charges.
That’s solid advice. I’ve seen plenty of disputes go in favor of the renter just because they had thorough documentation. It really does make a difference. Credit card coverage is often overlooked too—people assume it’s just for theft or collision, but loss of use is sometimes included. Just double-check the fine print since not all cards are equal. You’re right, it’s a hassle, but with some prep, you can avoid a lot of headaches.
I always wonder if the rental companies actually check all that documentation or if it just sits in a folder somewhere. I took like 20 photos of a tiny scratch once and the guy at the counter barely glanced at them. Still, better safe than sorry, I guess.
About credit card coverage—has anyone actually had to use it? I keep hearing it’s a lifesaver, but I’m paranoid they’ll find some loophole to deny the claim. Especially with all the “loss of use” stuff... seems like there’s always fine print hiding somewhere. Anyone ever get stuck paying for something your card was supposed to cover?
I totally get the paranoia with credit card coverage. I’ve used mine once for a cracked windshield, and it actually worked out, but the paperwork was a pain and they asked for every possible document. I had to chase the rental company for weeks to get the right invoices. Loss of use was covered, but only because I pushed for it. Definitely agree—take photos and keep every scrap of paper, just in case they try something sneaky. It’s a hassle, but better than getting stuck with a huge bill.
