I’ve always wondered about the liability part, honestly. My regular car insurance covers rentals, but I’m never sure if that’s enough when I’m out of state, especially somewhere like Montana where you might hit a deer or get caught in a hailstorm. Has anyone actually had to file a claim with their own insurance after a rental accident? Did it end up costing more than just paying for the extra coverage?
Had a similar worry last summer on a trip through Wyoming—pretty close to Montana territory. Here’s what I picked up along the way:
- Regular car insurance usually covers rentals, but the fine print matters. Some policies get weird about “loss of use” charges from the rental company, which can sneak up on you.
- Hitting wildlife (deer, elk, etc.) is actually more common than you’d think out there. My cousin’s truck took a hit from a mule deer and his insurance rates went up after, even though he had decent coverage.
- I’ve filed a claim once (not in Montana, but out of state), and my deductible ended up being higher than what the rental agency’s damage waiver would’ve cost for the week. Kind of wish I’d just paid for their coverage that time.
Have you checked if your policy covers “diminished value” or those admin fees rental companies tack on? That’s where a lot of folks get caught off guard...
Been there—drove through Montana last fall for work. Here’s what I ran into:
- My regular insurance covered the rental, but when a rock cracked the windshield, the rental company tried to charge me for “loss of use” and some admin fee. My insurer only paid part of it.
- Wildlife is no joke out there. Saw two elk on the shoulder in one day. If you hit one, expect paperwork and headaches.
- Honestly, if you’re not up for arguing with rental companies or dealing with surprise fees, just get their coverage. It’s not cheap, but neither is your time.
Honestly, I’m with you on the wildlife—Montana’s like a real-life episode of “When Animals Attack Your Bumper.” I’ve always been the type to read the fine print, and those rental companies will nickel-and-dime you for stuff you never even thought about. I usually spring for the extra coverage, just for peace of mind. It’s annoying, but after one too many “mystery fees,” I’d rather just pay up front than argue later.
I get wanting peace of mind, but sometimes I wonder if the extra coverage is just a money grab. Like, have you ever actually had to use it? I’ve dodged a couple deer but never had any real damage. Maybe I’m just lucky...