Who Is Covered by RBC Auto Rental Collision/Loss Damage Insurance?

Understanding RBC's Collision/Loss Damage Coverage

When you rent a vehicle through RBC, the company offers collision and loss damage (CDL) insurance that protects you from the cost of damage to the rental car. The coverage is designed to shield the renter, not the rental company, from out‑of‑pocket expenses if the vehicle is damaged in an accident, stolen, or vandalized.

Primary Insured Party: The Renter

RBC's policy is applied directly to the person who signs the rental agreement. The renter's name is entered into the policy, and any liability or repair costs that would otherwise fall to the renter are covered up to the policy limits. If you are a corporate client, the policy still applies to the employee who is driving the car, but the company's name may appear in the contract.

Secondary Coverage: Existing Personal Insurance

RBC's CDL can be waived if the renter already has a personal auto insurance policy that covers rental vehicles. Many personal policies extend collision and loss damage protection to rentals, so you should check your policy wording before purchasing the RBC add‑on. If your personal policy does not cover rentals, or if you have a gap in coverage, the RBC policy becomes the primary insurer for the rental car.

Coverage Limits and Exclusions

The insurance limits are set by RBC and are typically sufficient for most rental incidents. However, the policy excludes intentional damage, damage while the vehicle is off‑road, or use of the car for commercial purposes unless specifically authorized. Damage that falls outside these exclusions triggers a claim against the policy.

When the Policy Doesn't Apply

If you are a minor, an unlicensed driver, or a driver who has recently had a license suspended, RBC may refuse to provide the insurance. Likewise, if you are driving under the influence or violate the rental terms, the coverage can be voided.

Supplemental Insurance Options

RBC offers optional supplemental coverage for higher limits or for drivers who want to eliminate the deductible entirely. This can be added at the time of booking or purchased later through the RBC app. For frequent renters, a loyalty program may provide discounted rates on these add‑ons.

How to Activate the Coverage

During the booking process, you will see a checkbox to accept the collision/loss damage policy. By selecting it, you agree to the terms and the policy automatically becomes active once the rental is confirmed. If you decline, you retain the option to purchase it later at the rental counter.

Key Takeaway

RBC's collision/loss damage insurance protects the renter, not the rental company. It serves as a safety net when personal insurance does not cover rentals or when you prefer the convenience of a single, all‑inclusive policy.