You should never sign a legal document without reading it. Don’t sign a rental car damage agreement without reading it, because it is a legal contract that will govern how damages are assessed if you return the car damaged. Inspect the car before you take possession of it and be sure any existing damage is described in your damage agreement before you sign it. An unrelated tip: agree to return the car with a full gasoline tank — doing so will save you a lot of money on over-priced gasoline and “convenience fees” if you let your rental car company buy the gasoline after you return the car.

You should also consider whether you really need the damage coverage offered by your rental car company. Many auto rental agencies will pressure you to buy insurance, or even make you think you have no choice, but it is entirely up to you whether you accept their coverage. Your own personal automobile insurance may provide you with rental car coverage, subject to the same deductibles you have for your own cars. The credit card you use to pay for the car rental may also provide coverage for damages at no cost to you. If you are unsure about your coverage, call your insurance agent or credit card customer service number and find out exactly what coverage you already have before you decide whether to take the car rental company’s coverage.