Last weekend I rented a car for a quick road trip, and at the counter they hit me with the usual spiel about adding their insurance coverage. Normally, I just decline because my credit card supposedly covers it, but this time I hesitated and ended up getting their basic coverage. Honestly, it felt like throwing money away at first, but then halfway through the trip, some gravel flew up from a truck and chipped the windshield. Nothing major, but enough to make me glad I wasn't on the hook for repairs.
Now I'm wondering if maybe I've been too quick to dismiss rental company coverage in the past. I mean, yeah, it's pricey and feels like an upsell, but when something actually happens, it seems like it could save a lot of hassle. Curious if anyone else has had similar experiences or if you think it's still mostly a rip-off?
Had a similar thing happen once—declined coverage, got a flat tire, and spent half my trip sorting it out. Now I'm always tempted, but still usually skip it. Maybe it's just luck...anyone know if roadside assistance is usually included with credit card coverage?
Had a similar experience myself—skipped the insurance, thinking "what could possibly go wrong?" and ended up locking the keys inside at a remote trailhead. Spent hours waiting for help. Lesson learned...now I always double-check if my card covers roadside assistance before gambling again.
Been there myself, it's always the one time you think you're safe that something random happens. Locked keys, flat tires, dead batteries...I've seen it all. Good call checking your card benefits though—lots of people don't realize they're already covered through their credit cards or personal insurance. I used to always decline rental coverage too, but after a minor fender-bender (totally my fault, sadly), I'm extra cautious now. Still skip it sometimes if I'm sure my card covers me, but otherwise I bite the bullet and pay the fee. Peace of mind is worth something, right? Glad you got out okay in the end!
