Having had a very unpleasant experience with Hertz 15 or so years ago, I would not use them regardless of what they included or the price.
I typically use Lesley but if splitting a rental with someone else, I have also used Michael (former Unity) and have been very happy with both. Using Michael had more to do with the type of vehicle we needed for 5-6 people
You are 100% correct, cut the B/S and get a total bottom line price that includes what one is comfortable with.
It is also wise to check with your credit card on a somewhat regular basis as some (Discover for example) no longer provide ANY rental coverage, regardless of where one rents.
Bahston, a very good post to end this one on. Thank you.