Last time in the country, February 2016, I rented a car from Alamo and was told I had to get the extra car insurance. I never in the past was made to do so. I have lived there and visited there many times in the past 15 years. My arrival was late at night and I did not want to fight with the attendant. He pretty much said take it or leave it, the extra insurance is mandatory. Can anyone enlighten me on this, the legality? Not whether or not I should take it. I do understand the perils of driving in the DR. I use my AMEX card and this covers me somewhat I understand.
It appears a little more clarity is in order on this issue, so if I may......
The extra insurance is NOT mandatory as in "Legally" required, it may however be mandatory depending on each auto rental companies policies......and as someone pointed out above, many of the major car rental companies are owned by a single entity.
Next, and this is US based information, your personal auto policy most likely does not cover you in the DR. Canada yes, Mexico some, but not all......and as to the DR, I am not aware of any................so verify with your carrier before you rely on them to your potential detriment.
As to your credit card coverage, each card is different, but they ALL do not cover ALL losses you may potentially incur, to wit;
You are almost always NOT covered on a credit card for personal injury to others, liability, property damage, taxes, damage to other vehicles, diminished value of the rental (after an accident and after it has been repaired), tire damage, glass damage.
Further, some credit card companies only cover you for a set number of days. Visa is 31 days abroad and Mastercard is 15. Some American Express cards may cover you longer, but limits the distance from the rental company to 75 miles. Rent in Bavaro and have issues in Santo Domingo.....not covered....period. Additionally, AE will NOT cover full size SUV's.
So, there is no standard answer to your question.
First, check with your personal auto carrier.
Second, check with your credit card company as to what they do or do not cover and more specifically your type of card because they are different (Gold, Platinum, Titanium, Sapphire).
Third, know that whatever card you carry and use, they have coverage restrictions.
Fourth, assess your potential risk/loss against the cost of the "mandatory" extra insurance.....and if you accept the mandatory insurance, find out what is covered.......and by all means do not rely on the rental agents spiel.....get a copy of the actual coverages.
If this seems like more trouble than it is worth.....read this recent post and decide;
http://dr1.com/forums/showthread.php/159267-MasterCard-not-paying-VAT-on-car-rental-claim
Respectfully,
Playacaribe2