CDW in Italy

"Since CDW is mandatory in renting a car in Italy..."Actually, theft insurance (of the car) is mandatory. But Rick's understanding (stated on this website and in his Italy books) is that CDW coverage is not, technically, mandatory--but a really good idea. So, you have decisions to make since CDW is not automatically taken care of for you.But it's even more complicated than that: Rick discusses the complexities here http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/carrental_cdw.htm--you'll want to carefully read that webpage and focus on the exceptions involving Italy: Here's just part of it: "If you rent a car in Italy, you are required to have theft insurance, and most car-rental companies' rates automatically include CDW coverage (which you sometimes can't decline). It's not unusual to decline CDW when you reserve your Italian car, only to find when you show up at the counter that you must buy it after all."

Isn't it true that if I take the Italian insurance the VISA insurance won't cover?

If I have the choice, which is the better one to take. aughhhhh

I wish this could be simplified, but it depends on the details of your credit card coverage and your rental company's terms and coverage. Parts of Rick's webpage: "Many credit-card companies offer their own type of zero-deductible collision coverage. Relying on credit-card coverage can be a hassle. Restrictions apply and coverage varies between issuers — if you plan to use this coverage, carefully ask your credit-card company what kind of coverage they provide, the maximum number of rental days they'll provide the coverage, and the types of vehicles they cover. Have them explain the worst-case scenario to you.To use the coverage provided by your credit card, you'll have to decline the CDW offered by your car-rental company. Therefore, as far as some rental companies are concerned, you're technically liable for the full deductible (which can equal the cost of the car). Because of this, the car-rental company may put a hold on your credit card for the full value of the car. This is bad news if your credit limit is low — particularly if you plan on using that card for other purchases during your trip. If you don't have enough credit on your card to cover the car's value, the rental company may require you to purchase CDW insurance.If you have an accident, the rental company will charge your credit card for the value of the damage (up to the deductible amount), or, if the vehicle is stolen, the value of the deductible associated with theft. It's up to you to seek reimbursement for these charges from your credit-card company when you get home (you'll need to submit the police report). Be warned that if you accept any coverage offered by the car-rental company, you automatically forego any coverage provided by your credit card. (In other words, if you buy CDW that comes with a reduced $1,000 deductible, don't expect your credit card to cover that deductible)."