Here’s the thing about Turo protection plans: they’re not actually insurance, but a $500 out-of-pocket max can save you from a five-figure repair bill.

If you’re staring at Turo’s checkout screen wondering what the protection plans mean — and whether your regular car insurance or credit card has you covered — you’re not alone.

This guide breaks down what you’re really buying, how the three plans compare, and exactly what to do if something goes wrong.

What You’re Actually Buying

Turo protection plans aren’t insurance policies. They’re contractual agreements that can limit how much you pay out of pocket for eligible damage to the host’s car during your trip.

What Coverage You Get Automatically

Every Turo trip automatically includes third-party liability coverage from Travelers Insurance. This covers:

• Bodily injury to other people
• Property damage to other vehicles
• Coverage up to your state’s minimum requirements

What it doesn’t cover: damage to the Turo car you’re driving. That’s where protection plans come in.

The Three Protection Plans, Decoded

Turo’s protection plans are about predictable risk: you trade a higher trip cost today for a lower “worst-case” cost later.

Premier Plan ($0 out-of-pocket max)

• Best for luxury/exotic cars and anyone who wants the lowest financial risk.
• Makes the most sense when you’d rather pay more upfront than worry about any eligible repair costs later.

Standard Plan ($500 out-of-pocket max)

• The most popular “middle ground” if you want meaningful protection without doubling your trip cost.
• Example: If your trip is $300, Standard could raise it to $375. If repairs are $1,200, you pay $500 instead of the full amount.

Minimum Plan ($3,000 out-of-pocket max)

• Best for lower-value cars and drivers who can comfortably handle a larger worst-case bill.
• If $3,000 would ruin your trip (or your month), this plan will feel risky fast.

Will Your Insurance or Credit Card Cover Turo?

Personal auto insurance usually won’t

Many personal auto insurance policies have a commercial use exclusion. Because Turo is car-sharing (not a traditional rental), your insurer may deny a claim.

Some insurers are starting to cover car-sharing, so don’t guess. Call your insurance company before you book and ask specifically whether they cover Turo.

Credit card coverage often doesn’t apply

Most credit card rental car coverage doesn’t apply to Turo because it’s classified as car-sharing, not a traditional rental company.

Cards that might cover Turo:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve (check current terms)
• Some American Express cards (varies by card type)
• Certain premium cards with broader coverage language

Bottom line: Call your card issuer and ask specifically about Turo before you rely on this coverage.

When Things Go Wrong: Your Action Plan

First 30 minutes after an accident

1. Get safe — move to a safe location if possible.
2. Call 911 if anyone is injured or there’s significant damage.
3. Take photos of the scene and vehicles.
4. Exchange information with other drivers.
5. Report to Turo immediately at turo.com/resolutions.

Tip: Don’t admit fault or argue details roadside. Stick to basic info exchange and let the claims process handle the rest.

Photos to take so you don’t get stuck with someone else’s damage

Accident scene photos:

• Wide shots showing all vehicles and road conditions
• Close-ups of all visible damage (every vehicle)
• License plates for all vehicles involved
• Street signs/landmarks showing location

Pickup photos (before you drive off):

• All four corners of the vehicle
• Interior (seats, dashboard, obvious wear)
• Odometer reading
• Any scratches/dents/issues you notice

How the claims process typically works

1. Report the incident and upload photos and details.
2. Turo assigns a claims associate (typically within 24 hours).
3. Your plan applies and your out-of-pocket max limits what you pay for eligible damage.

Key things to remember:

• You have 20 days to dispute any damage claims from the host.
• Claims processing fees ($150) and appraisal fees ($200) may apply.
• Keep receipts and documentation until the claim is fully closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I decline all protection plans?

You’re responsible for the full value of any damage to the host’s car, plus additional costs like loss of hosting income. Your out-of-pocket maximum becomes up to $3,000 after an initial $3,000 payment — so potentially $6,000 total.

Can I change my protection plan after booking?

Yes, but only before your trip starts. You can modify your protection plan in your Turo account up until you pick up the car.

Who pays for a rental car while mine’s being repaired?

If you’re in an accident with a Turo car, you’re responsible for alternative transportation. Turo protection plans don’t include rental reimbursement — another reason to check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card offers this coverage.

What counts as eligible damage?

Eligible damage: Accidents, collisions, weather damage, theft, vandalism

Not eligible: Mechanical breakdowns, normal wear and tear, damage from prohibited use (like off-roading), interior damage from smoking or pets (if prohibited)

The takeaway: Turo protection plans aren’t perfect, but they’re far better than rolling the dice with no coverage. For most people, Standard is the best balance of price and protection.

Want to save on your next trip? Check out Groupon's Turo discount codes — every dollar you save can go toward the protection level you actually feel good about.