"Consumers should check with their insurance providers about their policies to see what is covered when they rent a car," said Rich Goebel of Answer Financial. "It’s also a good idea to call your credit card company because many offer comprehensive damage coverage for most vehicles."

Today, most rental car companies offer four forms of supplemental insurance -- liability, collision damage waiver (C.D.W.), personal accident insurance and personal effects coverage -- none of which you are likely to need.

"Rental car companies are not insurance carriers and have little expertise. They merely offer policies underwritten by insurance companies as an added revenue stream and these have little value for the customer," added Rich Goebel of Answer Financial.

Answer Financial also recommends consumers check their home and life insurance. Theft of personal items stolen from a rental car may also be covered under it.

Answer Financial, Inc. is one of the nation's largest and fastest growing independent insurance agencies, providing consumers with comparative quotes and custom policies from 400 top-rated insurance companies. Since pioneering its automated shopping engine in 1998, the Insurance Answer Center, Answer has delivered more than 20 million quotes for auto, home, life, health, dental and specialty insurance products in all 50 states. Consumers can consult with one of Answer’s licensed Insurance Agents by calling 1-800-233-3028, or they can visit www.answerfinancial.com to receive secure, real-time insurance quotes and buy their policy Online. The Insurance Answer Center is also offered as a voluntary benefit program or cross-selling platform to hundreds of financial institutions, large employers and affinity groups serving millions of American families.

Answer Financial is a private company headquartered in Encino.

To arrange an interview with Answer Financial, please contact Samantha Cornog, Casey Sayre & Williams 310.396.2400.