Capital One offers a variety of credit cards for all types of consumers. This includes cash-back cards, cards targeted toward students and travel rewards cards. While not all cards feature the same benefits, there are a few that provide extra protections.

One such protection is rental car insurance. When renting a vehicle, you can drive with extra peace of mind when paying with select Capital One credit cards and being protected with Capital One rental car insurance.

Let’s take a look at Capital One's car rental insurance offerings, what it covers and how to file a claim when you’ve had an accident.

What does Capital One rental car insurance cover?

Rental car insurance offered by Capital One is distinct from other types of car insurance, especially personal policies. In order to be eligible for this complimentary insurance, you’ll need to decline the collision damage waiver, or CDW, insurance offered by the rental car company. You’ll also need to pay for the entire rental with your Capital One card.

As a rule, Capital One car insurance will protect you in the event that these types of damage occur:

Physical damage to the car.

Theft of a covered rental vehicle.

Valid loss-of-use charges charged by the rental car agency.

Reasonable towing charges.

Note that Capital One’s insurance only covers your rental car — not other vehicles, which means if you’re in an at-fault accident you won’t have coverage. This includes costs for damage to other vehicles as well as medical payments for which you may be liable.