Car Hire Tips UK

When collecting your rental car there are a few things you need to take into account before driving away to ensure that you’re not going to get any nasty surprises later. Firstly don’t forget to give the car a good look around for signs of any obvious damage that’s not on the paperwork. This is a notorious scam of the less reputable car hire firms so check:

• the exterior of the car for minor damage, dents and scratches. Concentrate on the most likely areas; doors and bumpers.

• the interior of the car for tears and stains; don’t forget this includes the boot.

• that brakes, headlights and indicators are functioning properly.

• that windscreen wipers, electric windows, doors and latches, radio and heating are operating correctly.

• the tyre pressures (at the nearest garage), oil and water levels are appropriate.

• that the fuel tank is full if your contract specified it should be.

• that you have the car’s manual with you.

If you find any faults that are not already highlighted on the rental paperwork, report them back to the rental company, preferably before driving away. Should this not be possible, photograph the damage (this is where mobile phones with cameras can come in really handy) so that you’ve at least got a record of it.

Once you’re happy with the car just double check all the paperwork. Make sure the registration plate matches the vehicle and that you’ve got contact numbers in the case of a breakdown or accident.

As the saying goes, “Accidents happen” and you’re just as likely to have an accident when in a hire car than you would be driving your own car. So, it’s important to know what to do should the worst happen and you have an accident in your hire car.

All rental companies have different policies and procedures to cover for accidents and you should make yourself familiar with the particular procedures of your chosen rental company (these can usually be found on the rental agreement and covered somewhere in the terms on their web sites).

When you find yourself in an accident it’s important to record as much information as you can at the time. Always try and make a note of the following:

• You will need the name, address, phone number, insurance details and drivers license number of any one else involved in the crash.

• Note down a description of the vehicles in the accident, including their make, model and registration numbers.

• Write down the time, date and location of the accident.

• If there were any witnesses to the accident, you should get their names and contact details.

• Depending on the laws in the country you’re driving in, the police may need to be informed of the accident. Ignorance is no excuse so this is something you need to find out about before you begin driving the hire car. If the police are involved, ask for a copy of their report.

• Inform the rental company of the accident as soon as possible. They will advise you what you need to do next and probably ask for all those details mentioned above.

• In the event of an accident the rental company may decide not to replace the car for you (assuming it’s not drivable). Again you should check for this in their terms when hiring.

If the car is still drivable and you continue your rental after an accident make sure you leave plenty of extra time when you return to vehicle at the end of the rental. They’re going to have lots of forms for you to fill out.