Liability & Protection

Protect Your Drive.

We operate a high-value fleet in South Florida. Every vehicle leaving our lot must be fully protected against collision, theft, and liability. Review your financial responsibility options below.

Coverage Options at the Counter

Personal Auto Insurance

Brought by you

  • Your Deductible AppliesIf an accident occurs, you must pay your personal insurance deductible (usually $500 - $1,000) out of pocket immediately.
  • Premium IncreasesClaims filed for damage to our rental car will go on your personal driving record, potentially raising your monthly rates.
  • Loss of Use FeesMost personal policies DO NOT cover our lost revenue while the car is in the repair shop. You will be billed for "Loss of Use".
  • RequirementYou MUST present your Declaration Page showing active Collision & Comprehensive coverage that transfers to rentals.
Recommended

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

$24.99 / day

  • $0 Deductible for Body DamageWe waive our right to collect from you for collision damage or theft of the vehicle. Walk away with zero out-of-pocket costs.
  • No Claims on Your RecordKeep your personal insurance out of it. An accident in our car will not affect your personal premium rates.
  • Loss of Use CoveredWe waive all administrative fees, towing fees, and loss of use fees while the vehicle is being repaired.
  • Exclusions ApplyCDW is not insurance. It does not cover windshields, flat tires, lost keys, interior damage, or third-party liability.

Using Expedia, Priceline, or Credit Card Insurance?

Insurance purchased through third-party booking sites (OTA's) or provided as a Credit Card perk is almost always SECONDARY coverage in the State of Florida. What this means for you:

  • In the event of damage, Smart Cars Rentals will charge your card on file for the total repair cost upfront.
  • You will be responsible for filing the claim with the third party (Expedia/Credit Card) to seek your own reimbursement later.
  • To use Credit Card insurance, the entire rental cost must be paid with that specific card, and you must bring a "Letter of Coverage" from your bank.

What Voids Your Coverage

Engaging in any of the following activities immediately voids all CDW protections and personal insurance coverage, leaving you 100% financially liable for the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of the vehicle.

Unauthorized Drivers

Allowing anyone not explicitly listed on the Rental Agreement to operate the vehicle.

Crossing State Lines

Taking the vehicle outside the State of Florida boundaries (e.g., driving to Georgia).

DUI / Intoxication

Operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medication.

Racing & Speeding

Engaging in speed contests, reckless driving, or using the car for towing/pushing.

Commercial Delivery

Using the vehicle for Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, Amazon Flex, or any commercial courier service.

Leaving Keys Inside

Theft is NOT covered if the keys were left in the ignition, in the vehicle, or given to a valet.

Off-Roading

Driving on unpaved roads, beaches, grass, dirt tracks, or through flooded streets.

Fleeing a Scene

Leaving the scene of an accident without obtaining a formal Police Report.

Emergency & Accident Protocol

1
Ensure Safety

Move to a safe location if possible. Do not admit fault or discuss liability with the other driver.

2
Call 911

You MUST obtain a formal Police Report and Incident Number. No report = No coverage.

3
Document Everything

Take clear photos of all vehicles, all 4 sides of our car, and the other driver's ID and insurance card.

4
Notify Smart Cars

Call our 24/7 support line immediately to report the damage and coordinate a replacement vehicle.