After relying on my CC for CDW coverage for years, I had two claims on the same trip to the UK. The first involved a tire that deflated (not blowout) when going off the edge of a narrow road. It was late Sunday and had to return car early Monday, so could not get tire remounted. National charged for a new tire ($306) and I filed a claim with Visa. National provided the repair invoice and I had all the other documents (rental agreement, CC statement showing charge for rental, etc.) Visa notified me 2 weeks later that my claim had been approved and sent a check. Caution though - Visa DOES cover tire damage, but MasterCard terms state that they DO NOT. I was fortunate to have used a Visa card in this instance.
Am currently finishing up a claim for a windshield on a second rental with MasterCard. The claim has been approved after about 5 weeks waiting for Hertz to provide the actual repair bill. I should receive a check shortly.
My experience with both Visa and MasterCard insurance reps has been great. Just make sure you keep every shred of any rental document.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Thanks for reporting! It helps to have real details on the paperwork and timing involved and to hear a success story.
Posted by
St. Louis, MO USA
1976 posts
Thank you for providing us with your experience. A month ago I hit a telephone pole with a rental car (was trying to back into a tight parking space - first accident in 13 years of driving!) and am going through this for the first time. I have a Visa card with CDW and am in the process of filing a claim with them. Got all my necessary documents and will send off the claim this week. Thanks again for stating how long it took Visa to approve the claims.