When it comes to rental car insurance, you need know a couple of things before deciding whether to purchase it. First, does your existing auto insurance (if you have one) provide protection (liability, vehicle damage, etc�) for rental vehicles? Insurance companies vary when it comes to this option. In addition, are you and the other listed drivers on your policy the only ones covered while driving the rental car, or are the other drivers covered too? Make sure you check with you insurance company and get all the facts. Some contracts only cover rental cars in the event your car is stolen or being repaired. Make sure you read the fine print. Then you can decide whether or not you need to purchase rental car insurance the next time you rent a car.

Your credit card may also offer some type of coverage when you rent a car. Again, you need to check what type of coverage is offered. For example, most credit card that offer rental car insurance only cover the rental car itself (no liability coverage). Check with your credit card company to find out details. This coverage may be offered free of charge or you may have to buy it separately. Also, the coverage usually only covers the cardholder. Again, you need to check with your credit card company for details.

Now, if you find that you need coverage from the rental car company, there are many options available. You need to ask many questions. For example, what type of coverage is available? (vehicle damage, theft, liability, etc�) and who is covered? Be aware that you (as the renter) may be the only authorized driver of the rental car, and therefore, the only one covered under this rental car insurance. If you have other drivers with you, they will not be covered under the rental car insurance, let alone, be allowed to drive the vehicle. However, there are some exceptions:

In a few states, your legal spouse is considered an �authorized operator� and may drive the vehicle with your permission.

If you rent under a corporate account, your employer, employees, who are under the business account may be authorized operators to drive the rental car with your permission.

You can always add other authorized operators to your rental car for an additional cost ($5-$10 for each driver you add). Typically, they will need to have a valid drivers license, major credit card and must be at least 25 years of age.

These individuals are generally covered by any insurance you purchase from a rental company. However, be sure to verify this with the company at the time you rent the vehicle.