does progressive cover rental car insurance

[Dora]

Yes, Progressive does offer rental car insurance coverage, but it's not a standalone product. It's an optional coverage, called a rental car reimbursement or transportation expense coverage, that you can add to your existing Progressive auto policy. This coverage helps pay for a rental car if your insured vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim, like an accident or theft.

It's crucial to understand that this is different from the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) offered by rental companies. Progressive's coverage is primarily for when your own car is out of commission. When you actually rent a car, your existing Progressive comprehensive and collision coverage typically extends to the rental vehicle, but this can vary by policy and state.

Here’s a quick comparison of how it works:

Scenario	How Progressive Coverage Applies	Key Consideration
Your car is in the shop after a covered accident.	Rental Reimbursement pays for a rental car (up to your daily and policy limits) while your car is repaired.	This is the primary purpose of the add-on coverage.
You rent a car for vacation or business.	Your existing comprehensive and collision coverage may extend to the rental car.	You are likely still responsible for your policy's deductible. It may not cover all fees from the rental company (like loss-of-use).
At the rental counter, you are offered LDW/CDW.	Your Progressive policy might make buying the rental company's waiver optional.	Call Progressive before you rent to confirm your coverage level. Declining the rental company's insurance could leave you with out-of-pocket costs if there's a gap.

Before you rent, the best practice is to call Progressive and confirm exactly what is covered. Ask about coverage for "loss of use" charges the rental company may bill you for, and whether your coverage is primary or secondary if you use a credit card that also offers rental insurance.

[StJake]

From my experience, it's a bit of a "yes, but" situation. Your regular Progressive policy might cover the rental car itself if you get in a wreck, similar to your own car. But the real lifesaver is adding their "rental reimbursement" option. That pays for the rental car while your main car is in the shop after an accident. Just don't assume you're fully covered at the counter—always call and double-check before you travel.

[McDonovan]

I learned this the hard way on a trip to Florida. I thought my insurance had me covered, so I skipped the rental company's pricey insurance. A fender bender later, and I found out my Progressive policy had a coverage gap for some admin fees the rental place charged. Now I always call Progressive before I book anything. They'll tell you straight up what's covered and what isn't, so you can make a smart choice at the counter.

[DelAlice]

It's all about the details in your policy documents. Look for the "rental reimbursement" add-on; that's what specifically covers a substitute car. When you rent a vehicle, your standard collision coverage usually transfers, but it might not be as comprehensive as the rental company's waiver. The key is to understand your deductible and any potential gaps, like loss-of-use fees. A quick verification call to your agent provides clarity and peace of mind.

[VonDante]

The relationship is simple: if you have comprehensive and collision on your personal Progressive policy, that coverage generally extends to rental cars. However, this doesn't include liability coverage for injuries to others, which is tied to your rented vehicle. For physical damage to the rental car, you'd still be responsible for your deductible. For complete protection without worry, many find the rental company's damage waiver, while expensive, offers the most seamless experience, especially if a claim could increase your personal premiums.