What You’re Responsible for When Renting a Vehicle

So, you’re heading out of town and you’d like to rent a car to get you from place to place. Whether you’re current trip is for business or leisure, renting a vehicle can enhance the flexibility of the trip, allowing you to define your own schedule and go where you want to go. This is important, especially if public transpiration isn’t readily available when and where you need it.

Finding a Car Hire Company

Finding a reputable car hire company is the first step to getting on the road and reaching your destination. If this is your first time in the area, make sure to speak to someone who is familiar with the area before choosing a company to rent a car from. You may be able to speak to a travel agent, a friend who has had experience with a few of the rental companies, or even speak to your employer to see what he or she recommends. This will save you time, money, and effort in finding a good company that will provide you with the rates and extras you need.

What You’re Responsible for

When you rent a vehicle, it is essentially yours for the duration of your trip. You have a responsibility to ensure it is cared for and that it arrives back at the company at the end of your trip in the same condition it left in. This isn’t always easy, especially if you aren’t sure what your responsibilities actually are.

• Insurance- The company may have insurance on the vehicle already, but that doesn’t mean you should purchase your own. Rental insurance protects you in case the worst should happen. Insurance can cover the cost of repairing and replacing car parts in the event of an accident, but it can also help pay medical bills if you are injured, provide you with money to replace items that are lost or stolen out of the rental car, and protect you from other drivers that are not insured.

• Drivers- As the renter, you alone are responsible for ensuring only approved drivers get behind the wheel. Talk to the rental car company about this. In some cases, drivers must be a certain age, a family member, or a business associate. However, some companies are stricter than others, and you may face fees if the wrong driver is caught behind the wheel.

• Picking up the Car- It is your responsibility to check the vehicle before leaving the parking lot. If you notice any damage to the body of the car or the car’s parts, report it immediately and before leaving.

• Returning the Car- Every renter must return the car on time to the correct location. Some companies will provide a one-hour grace period on the day the vehicle is due, but most will begin to charge hefty fees after this.

• Violations- If you happen to receive a traffic violation or ticket while driving the rental car, you alone are responsible for paying it, whether the violation occurred domestically or internationally.

• Drugs and Alcohol- If you have an accident while the driving the rental vehicle and were under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your rental insurance policy will most likely be void. This means you will be responsible for paying any medical bills and repairing any damaged car parts out of your own pocket.

Whether you’re on a business trip or a holiday, make sure you know what you’re getting into when you rent a car. Find the right company and take your responsibilities seriously.