Mandatory Car Rental Insurance: Watch Out For Bait-And-Switch Pricing

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Hi Dave,

As a tour operator specializing in Costa Rica, I have to tell you that the mandatory insurance is for real. The insurance company is owned by the government, and coverage is required for ANY vehicle on the road.

It isn't as sinister as it seems. This is mostly about liability for damage or injury that may occur while you are down there. Most US companies don't cover vehicles in foreign countries, and the credit card "coverage" that some want to use has loads of restrictions and conditions. It is unfair for the injured party to try to collect from a foreign entity. Hence the requirement.

But I agree that Thrifty should have been more up front. I guess they figured that they had you in a corner, and you would just give in.

We always make our clients aware of this charge, and include it in our quotes. That way there are no surprises when you arrive.

I hope you find this useful.

Pat Hewitt
Costa Rica Travel Exchange
www.SmartCostaRica.com

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