Hire car insurance dispute - Telegraph We have argued that, while my husband is down as the lead driver with his full name and address, I am listed on the rental contract in the form of my driving licence (the number and the first five letters of my name). I asked Avis to confirm that my husband and I jointly rented the car, but it says it is not its policy to name both drivers, as the licence number is regarded as sufficient. Unfortunately, this is not sufficient proof for Insurance4carhire to pay our claim. Gill Charlton, consumer expert, replies The issue of your not being named in full on the policy is not the problem here. Insurance4carhire's terms and conditions say that to qualify for cover under its basic £38.99 policy "you must be the lead named driver on the rental agreement." This is reiterated under the "Learn more" section of the policy offer: "the policyholder must be the person hiring the car." So even though your policy covers up to seven additional drivers, you have to hire the car and head the rental agreement. The insurer says this clause prevents misuse of the cover by other family members when the policyholder is not travelling. "Mrs Radcliffe purchased our Europe 31 policy, which provides cover for hire vehicles where she is the lead name on the rental agreement," says a spokesman for Insurance4carhire. In this instance, Mr Radcliffe is the lead name on the rental agreement, so he is therefore liable for any excess required to be paid in the event of damage to a rental vehicle. Insurance4carhire appreciates that this was a very unfortunate incident. As an exceptional goodwill gesture, it will pay €400 towards the excess charged by Avis. It is also giving you a free Annual Europe Family and Partners 60 policy worth £74.99. This may be more suitable for your needs, as it covers two family members travelling together or separately. If Avis recovers the cost of the damage from the other vehicle's insurer, it should repay the other €400. Allow three months before sending a reminder. If you hit a brick wall, the European Car Rental Conciliation Service (ecrcs.eu) will take up your case. About Gill Charlton Gill is an expert on India, Cornwall and consumer issues, especially legal disputes.