When renting a car, the contract establishes the rental duration and outlines what happens in the event of an accident, damage or theft of the vehicle.
Before confirming your booking, it’s important to understand the contractual rules and the fees that may apply in different scenarios. The deductible, for example, is one of the key elements the driver must be aware of, as it is a fixed amount the renter is required to pay under certain conditions. Let’s take a closer look at what “zero-excess rental” means and how the deductible can be reduced or eliminated.
What zero-excess coverage includes
This type of coverage is designed for the benefit of the driver, enabling them to enjoy the rented vehicle without worrying about the financial consequences of an accident.
When there is no deductible on the liability insurance (RC auto), the driver is entitled to damage compensation within the policy limits and based on the vehicle’s market value, provided they are not responsible for the accident. If the driver is at fault, they lose the right to any reimbursement. Only with a Kasko policy—usually more expensive—is it possible to receive compensation for self-inflicted damage to the rental vehicle.
Is it possible to eliminate the deductible when renting a car? Yes. Some insurance packages remove the requirement to pay a deductible. In these cases, the customer must pay a security deposit, which is refunded at the end of the rental if no damage or theft has occurred. Therefore, a “zero-excess rental” means that the driver is initially responsible for the deposit, which is returned upon returning the vehicle in good condition.
What is the deductible?
The deductible is an amount the renter agrees to pay to the rental company in the event of damage to the vehicle. This amount is established during the booking process and represents a fixed percentage of the estimated damage cost. It is defined within the contract and may be added to any extra fees required if the damage exceeds the insurance coverage limits. If the damage remains within the insurance limits, the rental company will cover it.
Depending on the payment method chosen—credit card, cash or debit card—the rental company may freeze the amount or request it in advance as a security deposit, which will then be refunded when the vehicle is returned.
Kasko insurance for rental cars
Choosing Kasko insurance for a rental car is optional but offers greater protection, as it covers situations that are not included in the basic policy. The basic insurance usually covers only damage caused to third parties—people or property—but does not include damage to the rental vehicle caused by unknown parties or by the driver’s distraction.
Kasko insurance is more expensive than the basic coverage, which is often included in the rental price, because it offers enhanced safety and broader protection for the driver.
To avoid unexpected costs for damage to the rented vehicle, many customers choose to add the Kasko policy to their package. However, not all types of damage are covered, and there are important limitations to be aware of before subscribing.
Damages not covered by Kasko insurance
Kasko insurance covers only damage to the vehicle and excludes injuries to the driver or passengers. To obtain coverage for people, an additional personal accident insurance policy is required.
It also excludes damage to objects, animals or materials transported in the vehicle. Likewise, it does not cover accidents resulting from behaviour contrary to traffic laws, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving without a licence, or failing to provide required documentation.
Understanding the details of the insurance policy is essential for renting a car responsibly and with full awareness.
Are you thinking about booking a car for your next trip to Sardinia? Choose Ellepi, the car rental service at Olbia Airport. Browse all available vehicles on our website and book your rental car online in just one click!
