Zero Excess Cologne Car Hire

Why You Should Choose Zero Excess Car Hire in Cologne

They say peace of mind is priceless. But with zero excess car hire, it typically comes at a cost that’s a little higher than standard insurance. Is it worth it, though? Well, if you want to be free from any responsibility for unexpected repair bills if the car’s damaged during your holiday. And there’s more, because the claims resolution process is much faster than it is with standard insurance. Furthermore (this is a bit more of a leftfield benefit), you’re also less at risk from car insurance scams because they tend to target people taking out other types of insurance.

Please bear in mind though, the upfront cost is higher and despite the extra reassurance, zero excess might not actually cover every single eventuality. Furthermore, if you’re a super-confident driver, you might not believe zero excess is actually worth it, on balance.

Top Zero Excess Car Hire Providers in Cologne

Zero excess car hire providers in Cologne like Wheego typically offer zero excess or an almost as robust, supercharged version of regular car insurance.

But what should it actually include? Also known as zero deductible car rental, it usually features a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers damage to the car in an accident (provided you're not at fault), as well as Theft Protection (TP), which covers the cost of the rental car if it's stolen.

A couple of things might be excluded, though. For instance, specific parts like tires, wheels, undercarriage, roof, windows, and windshields. If you damage the car through negligence, you’re on your own. And zero excess usually doesn’t cover personal injury or damage to other vehicles.

Zero Excess Car Hire in Cologne: Save Time and Money

It’s true that choosing Cologne zero excess car hire can save you time and (in the long-term) money. But whether it’s a good fit really depends on what type of driver you are. If you’re a little bit prone to having bumps and accidents, or paranoid about scams, it could feel like a godsend. However, if you’re a pretty confident driver and have a limited budget, a standard package with an excess would possibly be fine.

What is Zero Excess Car Hire and How Does It Work?

Standard car rental typically includes a deductible or excess – the amount you're responsible for paying if the car gets damaged or stolen. Whereas, with zero excess car hire, you pay an extra upfront fee to reduce the excess to zero, therefore you wouldn’t pay a penny for damage or theft. Once you’ve decided to go for it, the process is pretty simple. You just book a rental car and choose zero excess during the process. Then, pay for everything upfront and if the car gets damaged or stolen during your rental, just report it to the rental company. You won't be responsible for any repair or replacement costs (within the policy terms).

How to Find Zero Excess Car Hire in Cologne

It can be tricky finding zero excess car hire in Cologne. But anything else worthwhile is, so when you persevere, it’ll pay off. First off, compare prices and options from different rental companies, on sites like the one you’re on right now. Alternatively, see if your credit card company offers zero excess, or consider taking out additional excess reduction insurance.

Enjoy Your Trip with Zero Excess Car Hire in Cologne

Can zero excess car hire really help you enjoy your Cologne trip more? You know, it just might do! Because with reduced stress and anxiety, you cruise round the city easily and enjoy all its attractions. And with a robust insurance behind you, it’s easier to explore areas which are a little bit off the typical tourist track.

Speaking of which, Cologne is an ideal base for a road trip through the famous Rhine Valley. You’ll roll through lovely towns, vineyards, and medieval castles, as well as picture-postcard Rüdesheim, with its half-timbered houses and Riesling wine, impressive castles like Eltz and Marksburg, and the UNESCO-rated natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge.

And another option is Eifel National Park. Nature lovers can’t get enough of this region, which has everything from volcanos to waterfalls, lakes and forests. Hotspots here include Maars, with its volcanic craters converted to lakes, the striking peak of Hohner Acht and marvellous Medieval Monschau.

And you could also roll out on a Northern Germany Adventure. Drive north towards Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, to enjoy its buzzing harbour area, historical sites, and mouth-watering seafood. Then, continue your journey to gorgeous Bremen, renowned for its Town Musicians statue and proud maritime history. And end your trip in exciting Berlin, which is packed with history, great museums, and a lively arts scene.

How to Drive Safely and Responsibly in Cologne

Get to know German traffic laws before driving, because they may be different to what you're used to. And in terms of right of way, remember that in Germany, drivers generally yield to traffic coming from the right (unless otherwise indicated by signs or traffic lights).

You should also pay close attention to speed limits. They’re strictly enforced and usually lower in urban areas than highways. Keep an eye out for priority signs, always wear seatbelts, and please give way to the trams (there are plenty of them in Cologne).

What to Do in a Road Accident and Emergency in Cologne

If you’re unlucky enough to be in a road accident in Germany, please try to stay composed. Stop your car and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. Then check yourself and passengers for injuries, calling emergency services on 112 without delay if needs be. If anyone’s injured or there’s major damage, you’re legally obliged to call the police (Polizei) on 112. Then you should report all details of the accident to your insurance company.

If it’s safe, gather information from the other parties involved in the accident, and take photos to record anything you think might be relevant.

How to Avoid Extra Charges on My Zero Excess Car Hire in Cologne

If you’re not super-careful, you might still be charged on your zero excess car hire. If you want to avoid that (who wouldn’t?), there are a few steps to take.

First off, bear the fuel policy in mind. Because some companies offer a full-to-full policy, where you return the car with the same amount of fuel you received it with. While others offer a pre-paid fuel option, which can be less hassle overall but potentially more expensive.

If you’re planning any of these road trips, please check if any mileage limitations are in place and if so, which longer trips are really necessary. And also make sure any additional drivers are officially added to the policy paperwork.

Don’t return your car late, and make sure you’re completely aware of the damage types not covered by zero excess. Look over your car very carefully at pick-up to note any preexisting damage, ask the rep any and all questions, and above all, drive carefully!

And there you have it – everything you ever wanted to know about zero excess car hire in Cologne, and a bit more besides. Drive safely and have an amazing time when you get there!