Loss Damage Waiver: What, Why & More

To make your trip as worry-free as possible, ensuring your rental car's protection is a great place to start. That’s where a loss damage waiver (LDW) comes in. Think of it as extra peace of mind when faced with the unexpected. Wanted to add LDW to your car rental booking but now sure how it works? Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

What Is A Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)?

A loss damage waiver, also known as LDW, is an optional product that waives your financial responsibility for any loss or damage incurred to your Hertz car rental. Only if the loss or damage does not result from using the vehicle in violation of the rental terms or for a prohibited use as specified in the agreement. A loss damage waiver can be useful renters. Loss Damage Waiver is not an insurance product.

Is a Loss Damage Waiver Worth It?

A loss damage waiver can save you time and money if an accident happens during your rental.

Without it, in most states, the renter will bear responsibility for any damage or loss. Even if it's not your fault. If the unexpected happens, the full value of the car, towing, storage, impound expenses, loss of use and other charges may leave you out of pocket if you aren't protected with LDW.

Even with your own car insurance in place, filing a claim could potentially raise your overall rates. This could leave a long-term impact on how much you’ll pay for your car insurance in the future. With a loss damage waiver, you won’t have to worry about filing a claim or paying out-of-pocket expenses after loss or damage to the vehicle. Provided you do not violate the rental terms or use the vehicle for a prohibited use as specified in the agreement.

What does a loss damage waiver cover on a rental car?

When you sign a car rental agreement with Hertz, you are agreeing to comply with its terms and conditions. However, we know that some things can’t be prevented, such as theft, vandalism, collision, fire, and acts of nature. All of these can directly impact your rental vehicle but may be covered under a LDW. Your loss damage waiver can relieve you of any financial responsibility.

What does a LDW not cover?

A loss damage waiver does not cover loss or damage when there’s been a violation of the rental agreement’s terms and conditions. Loss or damage to the rental car due to an violation of the rental agreement forfeits any coverage that the loss damage waiver may provide. Third-party damages or injuries are also not covered under a loss damage waiver.

How much does a loss damage waiver cost?

Pricing of LDWs varies depending on the type of vehicle you choose to rent. When you make a reservation request, a LDW fee will be populated. This will typically be listed as a daily fee alongside your standard rental charges.

Who qualifies for a LDW?

Anyone renting a car can opt-in for the coverage provided by a loss damage waiver.

How long is loss damage waiver coverage good for?

An LDW covers you throughout your car rental period. This means you’ll have 24/7 coverage, even when you aren’t in the vehicle.

Are you planning on renting a car for your next trip? To learn more about keeping yourself protected, visit our Loss Damage Waiver page and check out our LDW Basics Guide below.