Standard Liability Protection: Driving with Confidence in Australia
Every Alpha Car Hire rental comes with a foundational level of protection – our Standard Liability Protection. This is included in your rental price, limiting your financial responsibility in the event of unforeseen damage to your hire car or third-party property.
At Alpha Car Hire, we believe in transparent and straightforward car rental. We understand that while you’re exploring Australia, you want peace of mind knowing you’re covered. Our Standard Liability Protection is designed to provide just that – a clear understanding of your responsibilities and the extent of your coverage from the moment you pick up the keys.
What is Standard Liability Protection?
When you hire a car from Alpha Car Hire, Standard Liability Protection means that in the event of loss or damage to the rental vehicle, or damage to third-party property, your financial responsibility is limited to a pre-determined amount, known as the “excess” or “damage liability fee.”
This excess is the maximum out-of-pocket amount you would be required to pay for eligible damage, regardless of the total repair cost, provided you comply with the terms and conditions of your rental agreement.
How Our Standard Liability Protection Works
Included in Your Rental
Standard Liability Protection is automatically included in the price of your Alpha Car Hire rental. You don't need to pay an additional daily fee for this basic level of cover.
Defined Excess Amount
Your specific excess amount will be clearly stated on your Rental Agreement at the time of booking and vehicle collection. This amount can vary depending on the vehicle category and sometimes the driver's age.
Coverage for Eligible Damage
This protection covers accidental damage to the Alpha Car Hire vehicle itself and liability for damage caused to third-party property, provided the incident is not excluded by our terms and conditions (see "What's Not Covered" below).
Important: Understanding Your Excess
The excess is the maximum amount you are liable for in the event of an eligible incident. For example, if your standard excess is $5,500 and the repair cost for damage to the car is $2,000, you would pay $2,000. If the damage costs $7,000 to repair, you would only pay the $5,500 excess, and Alpha Car Hire would cover the remaining cost.
What's NOT Covered by Standard Liability Protection? (Key Exclusions)
While our Standard Liability Protection offers a solid foundation, it’s crucial to understand its limitations. Certain types of damage or incidents are typically excluded, meaning you would be liable for the full cost, regardless of your excess amount. These commonly include (but are not limited to):
- Overhead Damage: Damage to the vehicle’s roof or overhead parts resulting from contact with low-hanging objects.
- Underbody Damage: Damage to the vehicle’s underside, often caused by driving over obstacles or on unsealed roads.
- Water Damage: Damage caused by driving through or parking in water (e.g., floods, saltwater, rivers).
- Tyre and Rim Damage: Damage to tyres or wheel rims (unless specifically included in an optional waiver).
- Windscreen and Glass Damage: Chips, cracks, or breakages to windscreens or other glass parts (unless specifically included in an optional waiver).
- Damage to the interior of the vehicle.
- Lost or Damaged Keys: Costs associated with lost, stolen, or damaged keys.
- Damage by Animals: Damage caused by hitting wildlife (e.g., kangaroos) or other animals.
- Single Vehicle Accidents (SVAs): In some cases, a higher excess or full liability may apply for accidents not involving another registered vehicle (e.g., hitting a tree, pole, or static object, rollovers). Please check your specific Rental Agreement.
- Driving on Unsealed Roads: Damage incurred from driving on unsealed, unapproved, or otherwise prohibited roads.
- Breaches of Rental Agreement: Any damage or loss occurring when the rental agreement terms have been breached, such as:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Allowing an unauthorised driver (anyone not listed on the rental agreement) to operate the vehicle.
- Reckless driving, misuse, or abuse of the vehicle.
- Using the incorrect fuel type.
- Personal Belongings: Loss or damage to your personal property or the property of your passengers.
- Administration Fees & Towing Fees: An administration fee (currently $250) usually applies to processing any damage claim, and towing costs may be charged, even if the damage itself is covered.
We strongly recommend reading the full terms and conditions of your Rental Agreement for a complete list of exclusions.
Reduce Your Risk: Optional Protection Packages
While Standard Liability Protection provides a baseline, Alpha Car Hire offers optional Excess Reduction and Zero Liability Protection packages for added peace of mind. These packages, available for an additional daily fee, significantly reduce or even eliminate your financial excess for eligible damage, and may include cover for typically excluded items like tyres and windscreens.
In Case of Accident or Damage
Ensure Safety
Do Not Admit Liability
Do not admit fault or liability to any other party. Admitting liability can be a breach of your rental agreement terms and may affect your insurance coverage.
Contact Police (if necessary)
If another vehicle is involved, or if there are injuries, theft, or property damage, you must notify the police and obtain a police report number if possible. Call emergency services on 000 (Australia-wide) immediately if anyone is injured or the situation is dangerous.
Notify Alpha Car Hire
You must report the accident or damage to Alpha Car Hire within 48 hours of the incident. Call our customer service line on 1300 227 473.
Complete Damage Report Form
Photograph the Scene
Take clear photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage (all vehicles involved), and any relevant surroundings.
Drive with Confidence
At Alpha Car Hire, your safety and peace of mind are our priority. Our Standard Liability Protection is designed to provide a clear and fair framework for your rental experience. For greater peace of mind on your Australian journey, consider our additional protection options.