When hiring a vehicle, understanding car hire insurance cover is essential. Most rental companies, including us, offer insurance as part of the rental package. However, additional cover might be required depending on your needs.
Knowing the details of specific car insurance for hire cars can help you choose the right protection for your situation. Whether you’re driving in the UK or planning a trip abroad, the right insurance can protect you from unexpected costs.
This article will answer:
- Is car insurance for hire cars automatically included?
- What insurance is included in Fairview’s policy?
- What insurance is needed when hiring a car?
- How does car hire insurance cover work?
Is Car Insurance for Hire Cars Automatically Included?
Yes, basic insurance is usually included in your rental package.
Additional options may be required too. This includes Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), a car hire excess policy (covers costs not included in basic insurance) and business cover. The coverage lasts for the rental period, and you can extend it if needed.
What Insurance Is Included in Fairview’s Policy?
At Fairview Vehicle Hire, our insurance policy is subject to change and dependent on individual circumstances.
Accidents/Damage
Hirers are liable for all damage. Repairs must be done by approved garages. There’s a £3,000 excess per accident, with a £500 deposit held.
Breakdowns
Roadside assistance is included for all vehicles. Call the specific number in your rental agreement for help, or you may face charges. No refunds are offered for breakdowns.
Driving Licence Criteria
Drivers must be aged 25 to 65, with a valid licence held for two years. Drivers outside this range may face extra fees or require additional insurance.
Foreign Hire
Trips to Europe or outside the UK require extra fees and documents. Fairview only covers UK breakdowns, so you must arrange 5-star breakdown cover (the AA, RAC or Green Flag) for international travel and get additional rental insurance.
You can learn more in our Terms and Conditions or contact us with any questions.
What Insurance Is Needed When Hiring a Car?
Our basic insurance policy is suitable for most renters. However, there are multiple insurance options that may be necessary when hiring a car, which are dependent on your circumstances.
Personal Insurance Options:
- Car Hire Excess Insurance: This can help you avoid high excess charges.
- Collision Damage Waiver or Loss Damage Waiver: These are often included, but they don’t cover certain parts of the car.
- Credit Card: If you pay for the hire with a credit card, you might get extra protection if the total hire costs over £100.
- Excess Charges: You’ll usually have to pay the first part of the cost, or the “excess”, if there’s damage to the car. This could be anything between £100 and £10,000.
- European Breakdown Cover: Offers roadside assistance and recovery when driving outside the UK.
- Green Card Insurance: Required for taking a car to certain countries outside the UK for proof of coverage.
- Liability Insurance: This is the only legally mandatory policy in the UK. It covers the cost of compensation and legal fees brought against you.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses or compensation if you’re injured in a car accident.
- Personal Effects Coverage: Protects personal belongings inside the vehicle.
- Third-Party Brokers: These can make it easier to compare prices for comprehensive cover.
- Windscreen and Tyre Cover: Specifically covers damage to the windscreen, tyres or glass.
Business Insurance Options:
- Business Use: Covers employees driving for work purposes, including meetings and deliveries.
- Fleet Insurance: If hiring multiple vehicles, this can cover all cars under one policy.
- Goods in Transit: If transporting goods, this covers items lost or damaged items during transit.
- Hired Vehicle Cover: Provides liability and damage protection for rented cars used in business operations.
How Does Car Hire Insurance Cover Work?
Car hire insurance typically includes three essential types of coverage: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Third-Party Liability.
- CDW limits your financial responsibility for damage to the rental car’s bodywork, but doesn’t cover other parts. This includes windows, roof, undercarriage, tires or interior. You pay only an excess if repairs are needed.
- LDW covers the rental car in case of theft, vandalism or other damages, provided you follow the rental agreement.
- Third-Party Liability protects against claims from others for injury or damage to property caused by your rental car.
Before signing a contract, check fuel policies, age restrictions and possible extra fees. Always read the policy details carefully to understand what’s covered and query anything you are unsure of.
Rent the Perfect Car with Insurance Included at Fairview Vehicle Hire
Understanding car insurance for hire cars helps you choose the right level of coverage for your trip. At Fairview Vehicle Hire, we offer basic car hire insurance cover and can advise on other coverage if necessary.
Ready to book your next rental? Explore our wide range of vehicles and choose the perfect one for your journey. Book today and drive with confidence, knowing you have the best car hire insurance for peace of mind!
