I'm curious to get some input on opinions about rental insurance. For years I've used my favorite code #L093590 which has free LDW with a $3k cap, and also gives me a consistantly good rate without going crazy checking 10 different codes. But lately I've been buying the LDW from Avis from $10 - $15 per day.
I've had a couple co-workers involved in accidents lately with rental cars and I have re-thought the issue:
a) My absolute maximum liability with #L093590 is only $3K. But do I want to put in a claim with my auto insurer for $3K and risk a possible rate increase on
all 3 cars on my policy? Probably not. So I'd have to pay it out of pocket.
b) I consider the free credit card (Amex) insurance a waste as they will not act as a primary insurer if you have other coverage (auto policy).
c) I've found that the LDW insurance is very negotiable at almost all Avis counters. I'm sure it is a very high profit product and it seems the agents are empowered to discount the insurance greatly.
d) I've spoken to the claims dept. at Avis and was told that if you have an accident with their vehicle, and you have purchased LDW, it is pretty much a
"hands off, no questions asked" procedure, unless there was blatant negligence or issues (Drunk driving, etc) involved. Complete the 5 minute accident report and be on your way with a replacement vehicle.


So I'm thinking......I get a good discount with my code....is it worth it for an extra $40-$50 bucks per rental (average 3 - 4 days) to know that if I smash up an Avis car, I can just leave their wreck where it is, and go get another car at the closest airport? No hassle, no claims, no stress. I'm hearing more and more about rental car accidents for some reason and I'm thinking that it may be worth it. Even though for years I've been in the group that considered
LDW to be a total ripoff.

Opinions?