Hiring
a car gives you the freedom to explore, but make sure you are fully
informed before you zoom off into the sunset.
Of course you always read the small print on any
contract.
When hiring a car, though, at home or abroad, make
sure:
- you shop around for a good price
- you are clear about the terms and conditions - at the time
of purchase if on the Internet and on the contract
you sign on departure
- the paperwork details everything you have paid for
- you are aware if you have to pay for extras like child seats
- you have adequate insurance and tax
- you are aware of cancellation charges
- the rental office is going to be open
at your scheduled time of arrival - and allowing for a delay
- you know what type of fuel the car takes
- you scrutinise the car before departure, checking bodywork,
tyres, lights, seatbelts, windscreen wipers and brakes
- the company has a 24-hour helpline - with English-speaking
operators if necessary
If you already have personal travel insurance,
you probably do not need to purchase the car hire company's personal
accident insurance.
If possible leave and return with the fuel tank
full and keep the receipt to show you have filled the tank just
before handing the car back in case of dispute.
When you hand the car back, check the car thoroughly
and have it signed off. Tear up any blank credit card slips.
Here are some car hire dealers and brokers:
www.insurance4carhire.com offers
an annual policy waiving any excesses.
Drive Safe (www.nationaldrivesafe.co.uk)
has rules for driving in different countries. |
