Sixt offers great rates for long term car rentals in the USA if you are visiting the states for an extended period of time. If you are planning a road trip along the East Coast, West Coast, or to experience the scenic Route 66, Sixt has the right hire cars with a huge number of convenient branches to make your trip to America unforgettable.
YOUR PROTECTION OPTIONS FOR RENTAL CARS IN THE USA
Unless stated initially on the purchase coverage is not automatic in the USA, therefore SIXT offers a range of options. Here is a rundown of additional products you can purchase to protect yourself. Although it may say it is not essential to rent vehicles under these policies most states in the USA require liability and damage protection.
Premium Protection Plan
The Premium Protection Plan covers practically everything at a reasonable cost. It nullifies any responsibility for damage to the rental car. The plan has $1M liability coverage for you and your passengers. Medical expenses, accidental death and roadside assistance are also covered giving you full confidence under any unfortunate circumstance.
Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
As long as the vehicle is used within the expressed terms and conditions – as laid out in the rental agreement, the Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) removes financial costs for damage or loss. The LDW is not necessary for renting a vehicle, though it is highly recommended, as it may already cover parts already available in the rental agreement. Be aware though that if the Loss Damage Waiver is not in the agreement then the customer will be under full liability to any and all vehicle damage.
Supplement Liability Insurance
Supplemental Liability Insurance is very similar to the Premium Protection plan. The difference is you are essentially purchasing it for an additional driver. It still covers the up to $1 million coverage in the event of injury, vehicle or property damage for the additional driver. This is a completely optional purchase and may be included in the rental agreement so be sure to check.
EXTRA INFORMATION
- If you are under 25 you may face higher rates depending on which state. Typically if you are between 21 – 24 you will pay an Age Excess Fee that can be between $20 – $40.
- You can use your own separate Auto Insurance however be sure to check what exactly it will cover and consider added products for full coverage.
- There is also a Personal Accident Insurance option to cover medical costs that may be afflicted during the rental period for both driver and passenger. This is an optional addition and there are exceptions.
DRIVING INFORMATION IN THE USA
Firstly, when driving in the USA there is a difference between state and federal law. Federal refers to driving laws that apply anywhere in the country and these are basic things such as driving on the right, not driving if blood alcohol levels are above 0.08 (though of course simply never drink and drive), and the driver must carry a valid driving license.
State laws are more technical and greatly vary. When planning your trip be sure to check what the speed limits and special rules are in each particular state you drive through.
Further Information
- When you a yellow school bus if it stops and pulls out a STOP sign and you are behind, all traffic must stop until its operation is complete.
- Exit signs are based off the distance travelled, so if you see exit 180 it will signify 180 miles and the next exit will likely be a higher number such as exit 190.
- In multi-laned highways slower traffic should stay to the right and faster traffic should stay on the left.
- You are allowed to turn right on a red light unless there is a sign explicitly stating otherwise.
Driving through the USA is a great experience filled with natural wonders and incredible sites. In terms of rules it’s very straightforward but always plan ahead before you drive in the USA.
