Originally Posted by
Warrenlm
Call me overly risk averse, but I've been wary of using codes that "include LDW". I can see that aspect negating the credit card insurance (that requires one to "decline" insurance) and, if later challenged on use of the code, becoming reliant on own insurance. When someone "has never had a problem" that sounds like "I've never gotten a ticket for speeding but do it all the time." Does anyone have knowledge if credit card insurers view the "decline" requirement being met even when the rental was initially with a LDW included code? In the past, ezmoney noted that if pressed Avis can provide quite a history to the insurer.
I agree with your concern about insurance, but I believe your reasonig may be flawed. I think many people don't understand that standard credit card rental insurance is
secondary, and only activates after all your other insurance possibilities have been exhausted. I believe that the card companies can give this for free because it's essentially worthless. I'd bet that 75%+ of auto renters have personal auto policies that they are required to file a claim with first, before the credit card company.
The code I use most often (G417900) has LDW included, I still buy the extra primary coverage from Amex on every rental. I'm
paying for additional insurance from Amex just in case there is an LDW issue. By the way, I have had 2 accidents in the past with this code and the LDW took care of everything without an issue. That being said. I still feel it's worth the $20 per rental, (
not per day)to buy Amex Premium Insurance as backup, and know for certain that I do not have to go to my personal insurance company (or my pocket) in the event of an accident.