A collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance means that the driver is insured against accidental damage to the vehicle hired.

The amount of excess involved will be between €300 and €1,500, depending on the vehicle group and country of pickup.

Depending on provider, by paying an additional fee you can elect to reduce the amount of excess yourself, or have the provider reimburse you the excess.

Exclusions to CDW include:

• Damage to windows/windscreens, the interior, wheels, tyres, underside and/or roof of the car

• When the car has been driven off-road or on un-tarmacked roads

• When the driver was driving negligently

• When the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs

If any of the above exclusions have occurred, you will be liable to pay up-to the full amount of damage to the hire car, which could exceed the CDW excess.

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