Auto Insurance Claims: Car hire in US, collision damage waiver, medical insurance policy

Question
My daughter is proposing to hire a car during her stay in Florida shortly. Hire prices show "collision damage waiver" is included but later invite an optional add on of "total damage waiver" at extra cost. What is the difference between these two covers and is the extra the safer option?

Answer
Hi Terry,

"Collision Damage Waiver" (CDW) simply covers any deductible that may apply to your own auto insurance. "Total Damage Wwaiver" is for people who do not have an underlying auto insurance policy. It would pay the entire cost of any damage regardless of fault with out involving your own auto insurance.

Based on your word usage, it appears that you are not from the US. In that case I would say that you should take the Total Damage Waiver. Although it is expensive, it will give peace of mind that if anything happens, it will be covered. Also, in the state of Florida it has been estimated tat at any given moment approximately 40% of all vehicles on the road may not be insured. So also be sure your daughter has a travelers medical insurance policy as well. For more info on this visit www.insuremytrip.com .

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh