Re: Collision insurance,-Maybe the offer was different or perhaps it varies by location but I, too have AMEX with Costco and use Unity. Had minor incident about 4-5 years ago. Michael submitted and was compensated by AMEX (no $24?). I never paid anything and all was settled between Unity and AMEX. Moot point now that Costco and AMEX have parted ways.
I have found that rental agencies range from $5/day to $12/day for liability insurance.