Keith Mack
If you're looking to rent a car in Oregon, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, rental car companies in Oregon typically have a minimum age requirement, and it can be challenging to find a company that rents to people under 20. Even if you're over 18, you might have to pay an additional underage fee. Additionally, when it comes to insurance, Oregon is a fault-based insurance state, and you must have a minimum of liability insurance when renting a car. If you get into an accident, you should contact the rental company and file a report, and if you're not at fault, you can claim the other driver's insurance company.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of "renter" | Any person or organization obtaining the use of a private passenger automobile from a rental company under the terms of a rental agreement. |
| Minimum age requirements | Most major rental car companies won’t rent to younger people. Enterprise in Oregon requires the renter to be at least 18 years old. |
| Collision damage waiver | An agreement between the renter and the rental company in which the company waives its right to impose a financial obligation on the renter or authorized driver if the vehicle is returned with physical damage. |
| Definition of "damage" | Any damage or loss to the rented vehicle, including loss of use and any costs and expenses incident to the damage or loss. |
| Insurance | Oregon is a fault-based insurance state. Your own auto insurance policy may cover a rental. Your credit card company may also provide rental car insurance, but this usually only covers expenses related to the car and not medical costs or liability. |
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What You'll Learn
Minimum age requirements
In Oregon, rental car companies set their own minimum age requirements. While the specific age limit varies from company to company, most major rental car companies won't rent to younger people. For instance, Enterprise in Oregon requires renters to be at least 18 years old, while another comment suggests that most companies won't rent to anyone under 20.
Some companies may rent to younger people, but they will likely have to pay a higher price. For example, a $500 deposit was mentioned for a 19-year-old renter in Florida.
There are ways to get around these fees, such as using member codes for companies like National or Enterprise that are affiliated with colleges. These codes typically waive underage fees. Additionally, having a fraternity discount code or AAA membership can help reduce or eliminate underage fees for renters under 25.
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Rental agreements
In Oregon, a "renter" is defined as any person or organization that obtains the use of a private passenger automobile from a rental company under the terms of a rental agreement. This means that if you are planning to rent a car in Oregon, you will need to sign a rental agreement with the rental company.
The rental agreement will outline the terms and conditions of the rental, including any minimum age requirements that the renter must meet. It is important to note that most major rental car companies in Oregon will not rent to underage people, and those that do may charge a significant premium. However, some companies may offer discounts or waive underage fees for certain affiliations, such as college membership codes or AAA membership.
In addition to age requirements, the rental agreement will also specify who is authorized to drive the rented vehicle. This typically includes the renter themselves, their spouse (provided they are a licensed driver and meet any age requirements), and any coworkers or employers engaged in a business activity with the renter (also subject to age requirements). In an emergency, any person may drive the vehicle. The rental company may also expressly list additional authorized drivers on the rental agreement.
Another important aspect of the rental agreement is the "collision damage waiver." This is an agreement between the renter and the rental company whereby the company waives its right to impose financial obligations on the renter or authorized driver if the vehicle is returned with physical damage. However, it is essential to carefully review the rental agreement's definition of "damage," as it may include not just physical damage but also loss of use, costs, and expenses related to the damage or loss.
To ensure a smooth rental process, it is recommended to have the car rental confirmation number with you when picking up the rental car. If there are any pre-existing marks, scratches, or damage on the vehicle, be sure to bring them to the attention of the rental company and have them sign off on it before taking possession of the vehicle.
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Collision damage waiver
A collision damage waiver (CDW) is an optional benefit sold by car rental agencies that covers damage to or loss of a rental car. It is not insurance and does not include liability coverage. This means that while it covers the cost of repairing or replacing a rental car if it is damaged, totaled, or stolen, it does not cover costs if you cause an accident involving another person or vehicle.
A CDW is an agreement between you and the rental car company. For an extra daily fee, the company agrees not to hold you responsible if the rental car is damaged or stolen. The CDW may also cover other costs related to an accident or theft, such as towing fees and the company's lost income due to the car being unavailable to rent. The cost of a CDW is typically $15 to $40 per day on top of the cost of renting a vehicle.
Before purchasing a CDW, it is worth checking if you already have access to one at no additional cost through your credit card company, car insurance policy, or travel insurance provider. Many credit cards include free zero-deductible collision coverage as long as you pay for the rental with that card. Similarly, most auto insurers extend their collision coverage to rental cars as long as they are driven for personal use.
If you do decide to purchase a CDW, it is important to note that they may not cover damage resulting from risky behaviors, such as taking the rental car off-road or speeding. Additionally, CDWs typically do not cover damage to specific parts of the rental car, such as the undercarriage, roof, tires, windshield, windows, interior, and side mirrors.
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Rental insurance
In Oregon, rental car companies are required to provide the minimum state-mandated liability insurance coverage. This includes $25,000 in bodily injury liability insurance per person, up to $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 in property damage liability coverage per accident. While Oregon requires drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance and personal injury protection (PIP), you can legally drive a rental car without this additional coverage. However, if you have your own car insurance policy, it may provide additional coverage, such as collision and comprehensive insurance, which will extend to your rental car.
If you don't have auto insurance, consider purchasing additional coverage from the rental company to ensure adequate protection in the event of an accident. Alternatively, the credit card company you use for the rental may provide rental car insurance, although this typically covers only expenses related to the car and not medical or liability costs.
In the event of an accident with a rental car in Oregon, you must notify the rental company and file an incident report. If you are not at fault, contact the other driver's insurance company to make a claim. It is recommended to consult with a rental car accident lawyer to guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
Oregon is a modified comparative negligence state, which means that the degree of fault for each party involved in an accident is assigned by a judge or jury, and damages are reduced accordingly. It is important to note that Oregon is a fault-based insurance state, meaning the at-fault party is financially responsible for damages and injuries. If the at-fault driver is uninsured, your uninsured motorist policy should cover the costs.
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Accident procedures
If you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car in Oregon, there are several procedures you should follow to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do if you find yourself in such a situation:
Stop the Car and Assess the Situation
If you are involved in an accident, pull over to a safe location if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and try to remain calm. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries, and if anyone is hurt, call for medical assistance immediately.
Call the Police
It is important to involve the police and file an official report, especially if there are injuries or significant vehicle damage. A police report will be crucial when dealing with insurance companies and determining fault.
Exchange Information
Get the other driver's contact and insurance information. You should also provide them with your details, including your name, contact information, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information as well, as their statements may be valuable later on.
Contact the Rental Company
Inform the rental company about the accident as soon as possible. They will likely have specific procedures and requirements for accident reporting, and they may also provide you with guidance on next steps. Be honest and provide them with all the necessary details.
Take Photos and Document the Scene
If it is safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and any other relevant details. Documenting the scene can help preserve evidence and support your account of the events.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Understand your insurance coverage and whether it extends to rental cars. Your insurance company may provide guidance on repairs, rental car reimbursement, and dealing with the other driver's insurance company. Be sure to ask about any specific procedures or limitations in your policy.
Seek Legal Advice
Consider consulting an experienced auto accident lawyer, especially if there are injuries, significant damage, or complex insurance issues involved. In Oregon, which is a "fault" state, determining negligence and proving fault will be crucial in seeking compensation. An attorney can guide you through the claims process, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, and protect your legal rights.
Remember, each situation is unique, and it is always best to be informed about your rights and responsibilities. Stay calm, follow the above procedures, and seek professional guidance as needed to navigate the aftermath of a rental car accident effectively.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, in Oregon, you need to have a minimum of liability insurance when renting a car.
While there is no state-mandated age limit, most major rental car companies won't rent to people under 21, and those that do will charge a higher rate.
You must call the police and file a report, then inform the rental company. If you are not at fault, you should contact the other driver's insurance company to make a claim.
It depends on your policy. You may already have rental car insurance covered by your current auto insurance, especially if you have comprehensive coverage.
Oregon is a modified comparative negligence state, which means that no one can be more than 50% at fault for an accident if they are claiming damages.
