Depends on the carrier, if you are with our agency, your policy will pay for the damage to the car (or other damages that you're liable for) with a active auto policy in Alaska with at least liability coverage, {not to exceed the limits on your policy}.
Great news right!? yes and no If there is a claim filled on rental car it is nice to know there is no deductible (liability does not have a deductible) however depending on your longevity with the company, a loss of a discount, loss of deductible reward, loss of safe driving bonus, or even worse a claim surcharge may be as a result.
We do not not pay for loss of use either declared by the rental car company. Loss of use is when the rental car is unable to be rented for the time of repairs... this would be a cost I have seen be anywhere from 100 dollars and up, I have seen customers that have negotiated with the rental companies so this really isn't a huge deal.
Depreciated value is also a new charge Rental car companies are surcharging agaist their customers that we also do not cover.
What is recommend>??? If the car is being rented for a day or two, purchase the Insurance.. it is worth it! If you're renting for an extended period of time, or weeks it may be worth considering waiving the insurance (weigh the pros and cons). Usually the cost of the insurance is as much as the rental. The location may have a determining factor as well, if you renting a car in a heavy trafic area, it may be advisable to purchase the insurance through the company.
ALWAYS inspect the car<> go around the car a minimum of two times and look at ever panel, bumper, door and especially the windshield. Rental car companies are very infamous for sending bills out for dents, or a rock chip (they charge to replace the whole windshield) we have processed many claims that our clients are certain the damage was there prior to renting, however that is very difficult to prove or fight when you are 4,000 or so miles away! So ALWAYS inspect and get a copy of the inspection in hand prior to leaving the rental lot. Customers have taken photos of the rental before leaving, and have gone back to request a car without damage (perhaps ask for this while at the counter).
Renting in Mexico??? all of the above is void.. we only cover rentals in US, Canada.