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Car Hire Excess Insurance Quotes > FAQ Section > Car Hire Excess Insurance FAQs > Car Excess Insurance Restrictions

What are the restrictions on the Annual Excess Policies?

We look at the pros and cons of annual excess policies, and explore common limitations to the cover. Telling you exactly what you need to know about your annual excess policy.

You need to be aware that some policies do restrict their usage in certain ways. The following are examples, but do read the terms and conditions for any policy carefully for full details.

Drivers' ages - policies are available for those between 18 upwards - however there are fewer policies available to those either end of the age scale. Those under 25 should find out the car hire companies' policies regarding younger drivers. Sometimes they insist upon larger excesses or compulsory in-house insurance. Those under 25 are highly recommended to shop around between car hire firms, understanding the total price - including young drivers' levies and insurances that must be taken, as the 'add-ons' are likely to influence the total price considerably.

Cars - some policies will not cover exotic or vintage cars - check carefully if you wish to hire such a vehicle. Likewise all have a maximum value of the car - which will be at least $50,000 or equivalent, but in some cases higher. Not a problem for most rentals. One company has introduced a maximum acceleration limitation of 0 - 62 mph in less than 7.5 seconds. Having checked, this doesn't really apply to the run of the mill rental car, but if you are looking to hire something with more oomph watch out.

Usage - You cannot use the car in a negligent way - so no drink driving, off roading or taking the car onto the beach! Basically you need to keep within the car hire company's terms of use.

Vehicle Types - Vans with more than 9 seats, caravans and motorbikes are not covered. However there are policies that cover commercial vans, camper vans, motorhomes and RVs on a daily basis - these policies also tend to be good value compared to cover offered by the rental firms, and links to these comparison pages are available via our car hire and excess insurance home page. If you are not renting a standard car do check the policy you are thinking of buying carefully to ensure it's covered.

Size of excess - some car hire excess policies provide cover up to £5,000, some up to £10,000. The lower figure covers the majority of cars in Europe, although some companies have pushed up excess levels. Enterprise in Italy for example can have excesses of €2,000 on standard size vehicles, Portugal and Ireland are also getting closer to the limits. If you are travelling in Australia also be aware larger excesses tend to be charged.

Length of hires - Annual policies will only cover trips abroad to certain number of days - all policies cover 31 days - if you are likely to stay abroad for more than that check the policy - some go up to 65 days.

UK use - policies can restrict use within your usual country of residence. Use the MoneyMaxim car hire insurance service to define your requirements.

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If you have any queries do contact us here at MoneyMaxim.

This content was last reviewed on 22/07/2024

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