Car Rental Insurance in Croatia Explained (No Stress Version)
When renting a car, safety and peace of mind are key. Proper insurance and a clear deposit policy protect both you and the vehicle—so you can focus on the trip.
The Deposit: How Much & Why
The deposit depends on the insurance you choose. In general, broader coverage means a lower deposit, because it reduces the rental company’s risk.
The deposit is a temporary hold on your card, released when the car is returned in good condition. Once everything checks out, the hold is released from our side and your deposit is already on its way back.
Insurance: Choices & Coverage
Car rental usually includes basic insurance, but you can extend coverage to reduce risk and often lower the deposit. Typical packages include:
- CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Covers damage to the vehicle in case of an accident.
- TP (Theft Protection): Protects against vehicle theft.
- Super CDW / Full Coverage: Minimizes the deposit and nearly eliminates financial risk for damage.
A deposit may still be required for items insurance doesn’t cover (e.g., fines, tolls, refueling differences, parking tickets, and other post-return charges).
What to Do in Case of Damage
If damage occurs during your rental, follow these steps:
-
Stop safely Ensure everyone is okay and move to a safe location.
-
Call the police Request the police and a breathalyzer test, regardless of the situation.
-
Contact the rental company Call immediately and follow their guidance.
-
Document everything Take clear photos and/or videos of the damage and surroundings.
-
Complete documentation Fill required forms and obtain a police report if needed.
Before you drive off, take a quick walkaround video of the car (wheels, windshield, bumpers). It makes everything simpler later.
The Deposit: How Much & Why
The deposit depends on the insurance you choose. In general, broader coverage means a lower deposit, because it reduces the rental company’s risk.
The deposit is a temporary hold on your card, released when the car is returned in good condition. Once everything checks out, the hold is released from our side and your deposit is already on its way back.
Insurance: Choices & Coverage
Car rental usually includes basic insurance, but you can extend coverage to reduce risk and often lower the deposit. Typical packages include:
- CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Covers damage to the vehicle in case of an accident.
- TP (Theft Protection): Protects against vehicle theft.
- Super CDW / Full Coverage: Minimizes the deposit and nearly eliminates financial risk for damage.
A deposit may still be required for items insurance doesn’t cover (e.g., fines, tolls, refueling differences, parking tickets, and other post-return charges).
Advantages of Proper Insurance and Deposit
Driving in a foreign country is freedom—and responsibility. With the right insurance you get peace of mind, quicker deposit resolution, and flexibility to enjoy your journey.
Choose secure parking, drive carefully, and enjoy Croatia’s welcoming roads for a smooth, stress-free trip.
Conclusion
Insurance and the deposit aren’t just formalities—they’re the foundation of a worry-free rental. The right coverage keeps surprises away so you can focus on the drive and the destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the excess (franchise) on a MACK rental car?
The excess depends on the car group. Mini and economy cars (VW Up, Fiat 500) carry an excess of €1,250. Compact cars (VW Polo) €1,600. Standard cars and small SUVs (VW Golf, Suzuki Vitara) €2,000. Intermediate and full-size cars (Skoda Octavia, BMW 1 Series) €2,500. Larger cars and SUVs (VW Passat, BMW 3 Series, BMW X1) €3,000. Premium and luxury vehicles (BMW 5 Series, BMW X3, VW Caravelle) €3,500.
What does SCDW actually cover and is it worth it?
SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver) reduces your excess to €0 on most vehicles — meaning you pay nothing out of pocket in the event of an at-fault accident. On premium and luxury categories (BMW 5 Series, BMW X3, VW Caravelle, BMW Convertible), the excess cannot be fully waived — a minimum of €1,500 remains even with SCDW. Whether it is worth it depends on your car group and how much risk you are comfortable carrying.
What is NOT covered even if I have SCDW?
SCDW does not cover: tyres, wheels, hubcaps, undercarriage, all glass (windows and windscreen), wrong fuel, reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, passing a red light, or an unauthorised driver. Damages that occur outside Croatia without written consent from MACK are also excluded.
Is there a fee just for having a damage?
A damage handling fee applies only if the damage is your responsibility and is not covered by your insurance package. If your coverage absorbs the damage, no additional handling fee is charged.
What do I do if I have an accident?
Call the police immediately (Croatia: 192), fill out a European Accident Report, take photos of all vehicles and damage, and inform MACK as soon as possible. Without a police report and breath test from the scene, all insurance becomes void — regardless of which package you purchased.
What happens if I don't call the police after an accident?
If there is no police report and no breath test from the scene, all insurance coverage is void and you are personally liable for the full cost of all damage. There are no exceptions to this rule.
How much is the deposit and when is it returned?
The deposit is a security pre-authorisation held on your card at pick-up. It ranges from approximately €400 to €3,500 depending on your car group and insurance type — taking a full insurance package reduces the deposit amount. The hold is released after the car is returned in the same condition it was collected.
Does it matter whether I pay the deposit by credit or debit card?
Both credit and debit cards are accepted. However, the deposit reduction available when taking a full insurance package applies primarily to credit card payments — the pre-authorisation on a credit card provides a sufficient guarantee to hold a lower amount. With a debit card, the deposit is held at the standard higher amount regardless of the insurance package selected, as there is less financial guarantee available.
Am I covered if the car breaks down?
Yes. MACK provides free breakdown assistance. If you experience a breakdown, contact us directly and we will coordinate help on your behalf. For roadside assistance beyond Croatian borders, we will assist and coordinate the call — however the cost of the physical service itself is at the client's expense. Coordination assistance extends to Croatia and all neighbouring countries.