Sand, Gravel and Volcanic Ash Waiver is cover that is particular to Iceland.
Due to the climate and volcanic nature of the island, car hire companies tend to exclude damage to the paint or bodywork caused by sand or volcanic ash from their standard Collision Damage Waiver.
Sand Damage
In the south of Iceland in particular the strong winds off the sea can whip up sand and create a similar effect to a sand blaster - and, rather like taking a sheet of sandpaper to the bodywork of your car, a sand storm can create significant damage.
Gravel Damage
The roads in Iceland are unique because of the terrain and climate - whilst the main round island route between the airport and Reykjavik tends to be fine, if you head off on other routes you can find gravel and rougher roads are more common. Car hire firms tend to exclude gravel damage caused both to the glass and paintwork from claims under their Collision Damage Waiver.
Volcanic Ash Damage
Volcanic Ash can erode or destroy the paintwork on your car. The acidity of volcanic ash can also affect the tyres and rubber seals. If you are affected by volcanic ash, you could end up paying the cost of repairing extensive damage unless you have adequate protection - which for most hirers in Iceland will not come as standard.
Is all damage from Sand and Ash Damage covered?
It is important to note that policies cover external damage only - so, if you get caught in a sandstorm or under a volcanic ash cloud, try to find somewhere undercover for the car before seeking advice from your car hire company. Internal damage to the engine is not covered so in normal circumstances they are likely to tell you to wait for the storm to pass before proceeding - but may well vary this advice according to your particular circumstances.
How can I protect myself against the cost of Sand Ash and Gravel Damage?
Keeping it simple you have two options:
Take Sand, Ash and Gravel Cover from your rental company - When you rent from Clarify Car Hire we make sure you always have all the information you need to hand - so will offer you the opportunity to add this cover when you rent your car. You may have to pay for this insurance at the car hire desk. In the policy details we explain if there is any residual excess if damage occurs that you will still be liable for. If there is any damage the car hire company will take care of it, in the knowledge you have bought the cover directly from them.
Opt for the Insurance4CarHire Excess Protection Policy we will offer you before you make your reservation - One of the reasons we have opted for this partner is that they cover sand, ash and gravel damage within their standard policy. If damage occurs, you will be charged at the desk and then you will submit a claim to Insurance4carhire, who will reimburse you within a couple of weeks.
If you want to reduce your likelihood of extra costs on your Icelandic holiday then you may want to choose one of the above options - the cost of damage is high and events are not uncommon. It's far better to be protected and be able to enjoy driving around this wonderful and fascinating cou8ntry rather than worrying about damage occurring to your rental car.