Rent A Car With Confidence - Rental Car Lingo
Here are some frequently used terms that you should know before you rent a car!
Time Savers:
Automated Terminals
Automated Terminals are a great time saver when you need to quickly drop off your rental car. However, you may have to be a returning customer to take advantage of this service. These terminals operate in a similar fashion as automated bank machines. With these kiosks, you can pay your fees and receive a receipt without dealing with a sales representative.
Express Pickup
Express Pickup allows you to pick up your car without checking in with a representative. This service might be convenient if you are a frequent renter. The service costs, on average, about $50 per year.
Express Return
The Express Return is usually a drop-off box for the car keys, or a representative waiting for you in the parking lot. This convenient service will save you time if you are in a hurry.
Drop-off Boxes
As forementioned, some car rental agencies will provide drop-off boxes to return keys and rental forms. A receipt is usually mailed the next business day.
Personal Profile
Most car rental agencies will have a database storing rental user information. Personal Profiles usually include renter information, credit card numbers and car preferences. These databases make renting easier for you when you are reusing the same agency.
Valet Service
Valet Service is an alternative to airport shuttles or taxis. This is perfect for you if you are planning to go directly to the airport after dropping off your rental car. Agencies that offer valet service will send an employee who will drive with you from the car rental lot, and then drop you off at the airport. The cost for this service will vary, but it is usually around $5 to $15 each trip.
Insurance Options:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
A Collision Damage Waiver can also be referred to as a “loss damage waiver”. It is basically a form of optional insurance that completely releases (some CDW's will have a per incident deductible) all responsibility from you, in the case of damage to the car. Around an extra $15 per day, a CDW can be rather expensive.
Liability Coverage
Liability Coverage is a form of insurance that protects you and/or the rental agency from lawsuits involving an injured party in an accident.
Personal Accident Insurance
Personal Accident Insurance is another type of insurance that will protect you against most medical bills. PAI does have a tendency to be more expensive than standard accident insurance.
Personal Effects Insurance
Personal Effects Insurance will protect you against any damage to your personal property. PEI is normally more expensive than other property insurance, and is normally unnecessary.
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