Are you a frequent traveler and a proud owner of an American Express Platinum Card? If so, you may be eligible for rental car insurance coverage that comes with your card membership. This valuable perk can provide peace of mind and potentially save you money when renting a car for your next adventure. In this article, we’ll explore the details of American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance, its coverage benefits, and how you can take advantage of this feature.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
American Express Platinum Card Rental Car Insurance
The Platinum Card® from American Express is renowned for its various perks, and one of these includes features related to car rentals. While the card has a considerable annual fee, these benefits can significantly offset the cost. Here’s what you need to know:
Overall Benefits of the Amex Platinum Card
The Amex Platinum card is known for its premium offerings. Despite the high cost, it may be worthwhile if you can take advantage of the card’s benefits:
- Access to over 1,400 airport lounges
- Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite hotel statuses
- Entry to The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts
- Car rental privileges
- Purchase protection and extended warranty
- Travel and lost baggage insurance
- Entertainment and event perks
- A significant welcome bonus offer
Car Rental Privileges
With the Amex Platinum card, you get elite memberships with Avis, Hertz, and National car rental companies.
- Avis: Amex Platinum cardholders get Avis Preferred Plus status, with discounts and upgrades available. You’ll need to use specific codes for discounts and upgrade benefits. Enroll online or call Avis to avail these benefits.
- Hertz: You’ll get Hertz Gold Plus Rewards with President’s Circle status for free. This includes a 1-car class upgrade and a 4-hour grace period when returning the car. Use a specific code when enrolling in Hertz Gold Plus Rewards.
- National: You get complimentary Emerald Club Executive membership. Benefits include selecting your own car from the Executive Selection area, speedy returns with an e-receipt, and accelerated earnings toward free rental days.
Rental Car Loss and Damage Insurance
To be eligible for this insurance:
- Pay the entire rental cost with your Amex Platinum card.
- Decline the collision damage waiver (CDW) offered by the rental company.
Note that there are exceptions, like antique cars, certain geographic restrictions, specific vehicle types, and situations involving illegal activities. This coverage only applies to the first 30 days of a rental.
What Does the Insurance Cover?
- In case of an accident in the rental car, the plan pays up to $5,000 for medically necessary treatment if the cardmember, authorized driver, or a passenger is injured.
- For accidental death or dismemberment in a rental car accident, the plan pays up to $200,000 for the cardmember and $20,000 for an authorized driver or passenger.
- Personal property secured in a rental vehicle is covered up to $1,000 per person, with a total of $2,000 per accident.
- For damage or theft to the rental vehicle, the Amex Platinum card covers up to $75,000.
These policies do vary somewhat for residents of Utah, Vermont, and New Hampshire. To make the most out of the Amex Platinum card car rental insurance, you must ensure to use the card for the full rental cost and decline the CDW from the rental company.
Insurance Coverage Details
When you use your American Express Platinum Card to pay for a car rental, you may be eligible for the following rental car insurance coverage:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): The CDW coverage offered by American Express can provide protection against theft or damage to the rental vehicle. It typically covers the repair or replacement costs of the rented car, ensuring that you are not held liable for substantial expenses in case of an accident or theft.
- Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): The LDW coverage is designed to protect you against loss or damage to the rental car. It can provide coverage for repairs, replacement, or the actual cash value of the vehicle in the event of an accident, vandalism, or theft.
- Liability Insurance: In addition to the physical damage coverage, American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance may also include liability insurance. This coverage can help protect you if you cause an accident and are held responsible for injuries to others or damage to their property.
It’s important to note that the coverage provided by American Express may vary depending on the country or region where the rental takes place. It’s always a good idea to review the specific terms and conditions of the rental car insurance coverage associated with your Platinum Card before renting a car.
Benefits of American Express Platinum Card For Rental Car Insurance
The rental car insurance coverage offered by American Express Platinum Card can provide numerous benefits and advantages for cardholders. Here are some key reasons why this insurance feature can be valuable:
- Cost Savings: By utilizing the rental car insurance provided by your American Express Platinum Card, you can potentially save money on purchasing additional insurance coverage from the rental car company. This can be especially beneficial for frequent travelers who rent cars regularly.
- Convenience: With American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance, you don’t have to worry about dealing with multiple insurance providers or policies. The coverage is seamlessly integrated with your card membership, simplifying the rental process and providing added convenience.
- Global Coverage: Whether you’re planning a road trip from Miami to Key West, exploring the beautiful coastal cities from Savannah to Jacksonville, renting a car in New Jersey, or considering a car rental in Austin, the American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance can offer coverage worldwide. It provides peace of mind regardless of your destination.
- Flexibility: Unlike some rental car insurance policies that require you to decline coverage from the rental car company, American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance allows you to choose the coverage that suits your needs best. You can decide whether to use the coverage provided by your card or opt for additional coverage offered by the rental car company.
As you plan your next trip and consider renting a car, it’s essential to understand the specific details of the American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance coverage. Knowing the benefits and limitations can help you make informed decisions and ensure that you’re adequately protected throughout your journey.
American Express Platinum Card Rental Car Insurance: Limitations, Exclusions, and Important Considerations
While American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance offers valuable coverage, it’s crucial to be aware of its limitations, exclusions, and important considerations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience. Let’s explore some key factors to keep in mind:
1. Coverage Limits and Eligibility
The rental car insurance coverage provided by American Express Platinum Card has certain limits and eligibility requirements. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of your specific card membership to understand the coverage limits, including the maximum amount of coverage provided for damages or theft.
In most cases, the coverage is valid for rentals that are 30 consecutive days or less. If your rental exceeds this duration, the insurance coverage may not apply. Additionally, certain types of vehicles, such as luxury cars, antique cars, or exotic vehicles, may be excluded from coverage. Familiarize yourself with the eligibility requirements and coverage limits to ensure your rental falls within the parameters.
2. Secondary Coverage
American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance is typically offered as secondary coverage. This means that it kicks in after any primary insurance you may already have, such as your personal auto insurance policy. In the event of an incident, you’ll need to file a claim with your primary insurance provider first before turning to American Express for coverage. It’s essential to understand the coordination process between your primary insurance and the rental car insurance to avoid any potential complications or delays.
3. Card Usage Requirements
To be eligible for the rental car insurance coverage provided by your American Express Platinum Card, you must meet certain requirements. One of the key requirements is using your card to pay for the entire rental transaction. Ensure that you charge the full amount of the rental to your card, including any additional fees or charges. Using a different form of payment may invalidate the coverage, so it’s essential to comply with this requirement to take advantage of the insurance benefits.
4. Country-Specific Considerations
If you’re planning to rent a car outside of the United States, it’s important to be aware of country-specific considerations. American Express rental car insurance coverage varies by country, and some countries may not be included in the coverage. Before traveling, check the specific terms and conditions associated with your destination to ensure that you’ll be covered. For example, if you’re renting a car in Europe or other international destinations, confirm the extent of the coverage and any additional requirements that may apply.
5. Exclusions and Limitations
Like any insurance policy, American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance has exclusions and limitations that you should be aware of. Some common exclusions include driving on unpaved or ungraded roads, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, participating in illegal activities, or using the rental car for commercial purposes. It’s essential to review the policy exclusions and understand the situations in which the coverage may not apply. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and avoid any potential gaps in coverage.
6. Reporting and Claim Process
In the event of an accident, theft, or damage to the rental car, it’s crucial to follow the proper reporting and claim process. Contact the rental car company immediately to report the incident and obtain all the necessary documentation, such as a police report or accident report. Next, contact American Express to initiate the claim process and provide the required information and documentation. It’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by American Express and submit the claim within the designated timeframe to ensure timely processing.
As a cardholder of the American Express Platinum Card, understanding the details and considerations of the rental car insurance coverage is essential. By being well-informed and taking the necessary precautions, you can maximize the benefits of this valuable.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance can provide valuable coverage and peace of mind when renting a car. It serves as secondary coverage and offers protection against theft and damage to the rental vehicle. However, it’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of your card’s insurance policy, including any limitations, exclusions, and eligibility requirements. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to compare the coverage provided by your credit card with the rental car company’s insurance options and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary. By understanding the details of your insurance coverage and making informed decisions, you can enjoy a worry-free car rental experience with your American Express Platinum Card. Remember to consult the official American Express website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding rental car insurance coverage.
Safe travels!
