Turo, formerly RelayRides, is a peer-to-peer car-sharing company that allows car owners to rent out their vehicles to individuals needing transportation. It provides a platform for car owners to earn extra income by renting out their vehicles, and it offers renters a cheaper alternative to traditional car rental services. However, accidents and damages can occur with any car rental service. This blog post will discuss what happens if you damage a Turo car and what steps you should take.
Understanding Turo’s Insurance Policy
Turo provides insurance coverage for its car owners and renters through its partner, Liberty Mutual. Turo’s insurance policy is divided into three levels of coverage: basic, standard, and premium. The level of coverage you choose as a renter determines the deductible you will be responsible for in the event of an accident or damage.
Basic coverage has a higher deductible but is included in the rental price, while standard and premium coverage has lower deductibles but comes at an additional cost to the renter. Turo also offers additional insurance options, such as supplemental liability insurance, personal accident insurance, and roadside assistance.
If you damage a Turo car, the first step is to contact Turo’s claims department to report the incident. You must provide details of the accident or damage and any relevant photos or documentation. Turo will then review the claim and determine the appropriate course of action based on the coverage level and insurance options the renter selected.
What Happens if You Damage a Turo Car with Basic Coverage?
If you have basic coverage and damage a Turo car, you will be responsible for the full cost of repairs up to the vehicle’s value, which can be significant. Basic coverage has a high deductible of $3,000, meaning you must pay up to $3,000 out of pocket before Turo’s insurance policy kicks in.
If the cost of repairs is less than the deductible, you will be responsible for paying the entire amount. If the cost of repairs exceeds the deductible, Turo’s insurance policy will cover the difference up to the vehicle’s value.
What Happens if You Damage a Turo Car with Standard or Premium Coverage?
If you have standard or premium coverage and damage a Turo car, your out-of-pocket expenses will be significantly lower. Standard coverage has a deductible of $500, while premium coverage has a deductible of $0.
If you have standard coverage and the cost of repairs exceeds the deductible, Turo’s insurance policy will cover the difference up to the vehicle’s value. If you have premium coverage, Turo’s insurance policy will cover the entire cost of repairs up to the value of the vehicle.
What Happens if You Damage a Turo Car and You Are at Fault?
If you damage a Turo car and you are at fault, you may be liable for additional costs beyond the deductible. Turo’s insurance policy covers damage caused by accidents, theft, and vandalism but does not cover intentional or reckless acts.
If you are at fault for the damage, you may be responsible for the total cost of repairs, including any additional expenses such as rental car fees or loss of use. Turo may also suspend your account and take legal action to recover the costs of the damage.
What Happens if You Damage a Turo Car and You Are Not at Fault?
If you damage a Turo car and you are not at fault, Turo’s insurance policy will cover the cost of repairs up to the vehicle’s value. Turo’s claims department will work with the other driver’s insurance company to determine liability and resolve the claim.
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, Turo’s insurance policy includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, covering the damages. You will need to provide Turo with the details of the accident, such as the other driver’s information, police report, and any relevant photos or documentation.
What Happens if You Damage a Turo Car and You Do Not Have Insurance?
If you damage a Turo car and you do not have insurance, you will be personally responsible for the full cost of repairs up to the value of the vehicle. This can be a significant amount and may result in legal action being taken against you to recover the costs.
Turo requires all renters to have a valid driver’s license and insurance coverage that meets the minimum requirements in their state of residence. If you do not have insurance, you should not rent a Turo car, as you will be personally liable for any damages.
Tips for Avoiding Damage to Turo Cars
To avoid damaging a Turo car, taking care when driving and treating the vehicle as if it were your own is important. Here are some tips to help you avoid damage and potential headaches:
- Familiarize yourself with the car: Before driving, take some time to familiarize yourself with its features and controls. This will help you avoid accidental damage caused by unfamiliarity.
- Drive carefully: Drive carefully and obey all traffic laws to reduce the risk of accidents. Avoid reckless driving, speeding, and distracted driving, which can increase the risk of accidents.
- Keep the car clean: Keep the car clean and free of debris to avoid damage to the interior. Avoid eating or drinking in the car, and dispose of trash properly.
- Park in safe areas: Park the car in safe and secure places to reduce the risk of theft or vandalism. Avoid parking in areas known for high crime rates or not well-lit.
- Follow Turo’s policies: Follow Turo’s policies regarding the use and care of the car, such as avoiding smoking in the car and adhering to any mileage restrictions.
In summary, if you damage a Turo car, the amount you will be responsible for depends on the level of coverage you selected as a renter. You will be responsible for a high deductible if you have basic coverage, while standard and premium coverage have lower deductibles. If you damage a Turo car and you are at fault, you may be responsible for additional costs beyond the deductible.
To avoid damage and potential headaches, it’s important to take care when driving and treating the car as if it were your own. By following these tips and Turo’s policies, you can reduce the risk of damage and enjoy a hassle-free car rental experience.