Overview of Chase Sapphire Reserve's Auto Rental Insurance Coverage

When renting a car with the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card, you're covered by primary car rental insurance. However, there are certain guidelines to follow to ensure you're fully protected.

Firstly, at the check-in counter, decline the car rental company's collision damage waiver. This is because the insurance offered by Chase Sapphire Reserve® is primary coverage, meaning it acts as your primary insurance, and the rental company's insurance becomes secondary.

In the event of an incident, call your card's benefit administrator as soon as possible to report it. You'll need to gather several documents to support your claim: copies of the accident report, rental agreement, repair estimate and itemized bill, two photos of the damage (if applicable), a police report, and a demand letter. Also, include the Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver claim form and your credit card account statement.

Chase recommends filing your claim online at www.eclaimsline.com. Remember, the insurance covers up to $75,000 in reimbursement for theft and collision damage. It also covers applicable loss-of-use charges, administrative fees, and towing charges.

It's important to note that only the primary driver and any authorized drivers named in the rental car agreement are covered. The insurance does not cover damage to other drivers' vehicles, incidents or damage caused by off-road adventures, or any incident where the driver was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or participating in illegal activities.

The policy does not cover antique cars, cargo vans, trucks other than pickups, motorcycles and mopeds, limousines, recreational vehicles, and passenger vans seating ten or more people. Rental periods that are longer than 31 days are also not covered by the policy.

Lastly, you have 100 days to report any theft or damage after the incident, 120 days to send in the claim form, and 365 days to submit all necessary documentation.

For those seeking a card that offers primary rental car insurance coverage without a deductible, the American Express Business Platinum Card could be a good choice. It provides primary coverage up to €75,000.

Remember, it's always a good idea to familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions of your car rental insurance before you hit the road. Safe travels!