Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI)

What it means

Supplemental Liability Insurance is optional coverage, sold mainly in the US, that adds liability protection on top of what the rental already carries or your own auto policy provides. It protects you if you injure someone or damage someone else's property while driving the rental. It doesn't cover damage to the rental car itself.

Why it matters

Liability is the part of rental cover that can run into big numbers, because it's about other people. Visitors to the US who don't carry US auto insurance often look at SLI for that reason.

Wording by region

Outside North America, basic third-party liability cover is usually included in the rental price, so SLI is rarely offered. What that included cover pays for (injury, property or both) and its limits vary by country.

Related terms

• Third-party liabilityCover for injury to other people and damage to their property that you cause while driving.

Also related State minimum liability, Liability limit, Personal auto policy coverage (US), Additional Liability Insurance (ALI)