Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is a type of cover. It limits the driver’s liability if the rental car is damaged. This means that you will not be charged the whole cost of the car if it gets damaged while you have it. If this insurance is not taken, we charge a deposit of €1700.
There is almost always an excess, which means you will pay the first part of any repair costs.
But it does not include windscreens, tyres, undercarriage, replacement locks, replacement keys and towing charges. This means that if these parts of the car are damaged, or if you are towed, you will be liable for the whole cost, not just an excess.
Also, Collision Damage Waiver only works if you stick to the terms of the rental agreement (which you’ll sign when you collect the car). This means that if (for example) you drive drunk or park somewhere risky and the car is damaged, you will be liable for the whole cost of the repair, not just an excess.
The excess is the maximum amount of money you’re liable for in the event your rental car is damaged or stolen as long as you follow the conditions of your rental agreement. Each car has a different deductible.
Do note that this is not full protection, and the driver will be responsible for damage up to the excess amount.