What is a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)?
A Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is a handy protection package that combines two essential coverages into one simple agreement: the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP). It helps limit your financial responsibility if the rental car is ever damaged or stolen.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Take a quick look at your voucher to see if LDW is listed.
In Europe, these components are usually standard and already included in your rental!
Instead of seeing CDW and TP listed separately, you might just see LDW. It simply covers the car's bodywork in accidents and the vehicle's value if it's ever stolen.
LDW usually comes with an Excess (or deductible). This is simply the maximum amount you'd be asked to pay if damage or theft occurs, and the waiver happily covers the rest.
Standard LDW is great for the main body of the car, but it usually skips over parts like tyres, windows, mirrors, and the undercarriage, as well as any personal items left inside.
"Since I have LDW, I have zero financial responsibility for the car."
LDW is fantastic for reducing your responsibility down to the Excess amount (like $1,000), rather than the full value of the car! To bring that amount all the way down to zero, you'd just need to look for a "Zero Excess" coverage option.
"Since the name includes 'Loss,' it covers the loss of my personal belongings."
LDW specifically covers the loss of the rental vehicle itself. For personal belongings like laptops or cameras, you'll usually want to rely on your personal travel insurance instead.
💡Did You Know?
In the US and Canada, LDW is often completely optional!
If it isn't listed in your "Rate Includes" section, you can simply bring proof of your own valid coverage (like personal insurance or a credit card protection plan) or easily purchase it right at the rental desk.
What To Do Next:
Take a quick peek at your Rental Conditions to find your specific Excess amount.
If you'd like to protect that Excess and cover vulnerable parts like tyres and glass, you can easily add our Full Coverage right through our website anytime before your pick-up!
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