I used to avoid the collision damage waiver fee (which at one point was $10), but realize it's more of a no-hassle fee. Technically natural wear and tear like a flat tire wouldn't be considered "collision damage" unless it could be proved that it was caused by a rock or other object (though the terms might include both scenarios).
After once being charged for scratched damages by dropping a car off after business hours, and having no pictures of the condition prior to turning it in, I resolved to avoid renting a car whenever possible.
I've had better luck with some more recent rentals, and even opt to pay the collision damage waiver fee, just because it's worth the less hassle, even if lack of insurance on wear and tear should still be covered by them.
I also take pictures of the entire car, inside and out before I even drive it off the lot, to be sure they can't "discover" a pre-existing dent or scratch (usually larger than a credit card is when they charge).
I used to avoid the collision damage waiver fee (which at one point was $10), but realize it's more of a no-hassle fee. Technically natural wear and tear like a flat tire wouldn't be considered "collision damage" unless it could be proved that it was caused by a rock or other object (though the terms might include both scenarios).
After once being charged for scratched damages by dropping a car off after business hours, and having no pictures of the condition prior to turning it in, I resolved to avoid renting a car whenever possible.
I've had better luck with some more recent rentals, and even opt to pay the collision damage waiver fee, just because it's worth the less hassle, even if lack of insurance on wear and tear should still be covered by them.
I also take pictures of the entire car, inside and out before I even drive it off the lot, to be sure they can't "discover" a pre-existing dent or scratch (usually larger than a credit card is when they charge).