Renting a high-end vehicle like a Lamborghini Urus, a Ferrari Portofino M, or a Rolls-Royce Ghost is an unforgettable experience. However, before starting the engine, it’s essential to understand one key aspect: luxury car insurance. Moreover during my first rental, I underestimated the importance of this detail. Since then, I’ve always checked every clause. If you’re thinking about driving a luxury car, let me walk you through everything the insurance includes — and what it doesn’t.
Basic coverage: what's usually included?
First of all, it’s important to clarify that most luxury car rental agencies — especially premium ones like ddluxurycar.com — include basic insurance in the price. This usually covers third-party liability (also called “RC” or “responsabilidad civil”).
That means that in case of an accident caused by your fault, damages to other vehicles or people will be covered. However, here’s the catch: luxury car insurance in its basic form won’t protect you entirely.
In fact, most basic insurances leave the renter responsible for:
- Damages to the rented vehicle
- Theft or partial theft
- Vandalism
- Broken windshields or mirrors
What is a deductible and how does it affect you?
When I rented a McLaren 720S Spider for a road trip along the Costa Brava, I was shocked by the amount of the deductible. The deductible is the amount you must pay in case of damage, even if you’ve purchased insurance.
For example, if the luxury car insurance has a €5,000 deductible and you return the car with €2,000 in scratches, you’ll pay those €2,000 out of pocket. Only above the €5,000 threshold would the insurance start to cover.
Deductibles vary between €2,000 and €10,000 depending on the model. Some examples:
- Ferrari F8 Spider: €8,000+
- Lamborghini Huracán Evo Spyder: €10,000
- Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG: around €3,000
And yes, they’ll often block that amount from your card as a deposit.
Optional coverage: is full insurance worth it?
After a few rentals, I learned the value of extending the basic coverage. Most companies offer additional packages like:
- CDW (collision damage waiver): reduces your liability in case of damage
- Super CDW: eliminates or further reduces your responsibility
- Theft protection (TP): covers loss due to theft
- Glass and tire insurance: often excluded from basic coverage
When I drove a Bentley Continental GTC through southern France, I opted for the full insurance. It gave me peace of mind — especially in tight parking spaces where scratches are just waiting to happen.
My advice? Always ask if full coverage includes zero deductible, and whether it protects even minor components like rims or underbody damage. These areas are often excluded.
What happens in case of an accident?
In case of a mishap, the process will depend entirely on what type of luxury car insurance you’ve selected. Here’s what I experienced personally after a light collision:
- Call the rental company immediately — even before the police, unless there are injuries
- Fill out the accident report. Take photos and videos of all damages and surroundings
- File a police report if needed, especially when another vehicle is involved
- The agency may retain part or all of your deposit until assessment
- If your coverage is valid, they’ll open the claim
The process is smoother than I expected, but only if all documentation is in place and deadlines are respected. Always request confirmation in writing when you notify the company.
Hidden clauses you must read carefully
When renting a Porsche 911 Carrera , I almost missed a clause excluding damages caused in certain driving conditions. That’s why you must always read:
- Exclusions for off-road use or track driving
- Limits of daily mileage and associated penalties
- Territorial limits: some companies won’t cover you outside a certain country
- Conditions for drivers under 25 or 30
These exclusions can void your luxury car insurance, even if you believed you were covered. Don’t skip the fine print.
Credit card coverage: do you really need it?
Some premium credit cards (Amex Platinum, Visa Infinite) offer rental car insurance. But here’s what many forget: they rarely cover luxury cars.
I called my bank before renting a Range Rover Autobiography and they confirmed: “Vehicles with a market value over €70,000 are excluded.” So, although it sounds tempting, your card’s insurance might not be helpful here.
My checklist before renting a luxury car
To avoid bad surprises, I always go through this list:
- Ask for all available luxury car insurance options
- Read and understand the deductible amount
- Clarify what’s not included (glass, tires, interior, undercarriage)
- Verify the geographical coverage
- Check if track driving or special events invalidate the insurance
- Ask about what happens in case of minor damage
- Request written confirmation of all terms
Trust me: taking 10 minutes to do this can save you thousands — and preserve your vacation or business trip.
Final thoughts: don't let insurance ruin the experience
Driving a Rolls-Royce Cullinan down the French Riviera or a Ferrari 488 GTB through the Italian lakes is an experience you’ll remember forever. But without the right luxury car insurance, a small scratch can turn into a big financial headache.
So, take your time to review all details. Ask questions. And if you’re not sure — upgrade your insurance. It’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind you need when driving the most extraordinary cars in the world.
