Whether your car is in the shop or you are going on vacation, renting a vehicle can be a great way to get around. You should know some things before getting behind the wheel of a rental.
Reviewing a company’s policies and restrictions before renting is essential. This includes the return process.
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Picking Up the Car
If the rental company allows it, take a few minutes to stash all your paperwork somewhere safe before you’re handed the keys. Please double-check your contract and ensure all the extra fees are accounted for.
Then, it’s time to sign the rental agreement and get your car. Take your time – especially if a lineup is at the counter. If something is unclear, carefully read it and ask questions. It’s also a good idea to check the vehicle’s condition (including any damage) at this point before driving off – particularly if you’re renting an after-hours car. For additional insights, you can click here.
Finally, be sure to ask the staff for directions to the nearest fuel station so you can fill up before returning the car. Depending on your booking terms and conditions, you may be charged for a full gas tank when you drop off the rental car.
It’s also good to ask the staff about additional driver costs, child seats, GPS, and other options. Finally, remember to return the car reasonably clean, and ensure you’ve got the receipt from the staff that proves the date you returned it — so you don’t get hit with an unexpected fee on your credit card statement. This is important if you’re renting a car abroad since jet lag and a possible language barrier can confuse the situation.
Inspecting the Car
A rental car inspection is a renter’s first step to ensure they will drive off with a safe and clean vehicle. This thorough check of the interior and exterior identifies any existing damages and helps to avoid disputes that can arise upon return.
Start by examining the vehicle’s exterior and checking for scratches, dents, or other visible paint, windows, and mirror damage. Then, test the brakes, lights, and indicators to ensure they work correctly. Finally, inspect the tires and wheels to ensure they are in good condition and not displaying excessive wear or age.
Taking clear and time-stamped photos during the inspection process is helpful to add additional proof should any future disputes arise regarding damages or charges. Additionally, informing the customer before using the vehicle if any pre-existing damage is found is essential.
By incorporating a comprehensive vehicle inspection into the pickup and drop-off process, rental companies can improve the customer experience, preserve their reputation, and minimize disputes over damages. The record-keeping process also helps to reduce wait times, making it faster for customers to get on the road and on their way.
Driving the Car
If you rent a car in New York City, it is essential to understand the local traffic rules. Always keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, and remember to check your mirrors often. Biking is famous in the city, so being aware of bikers while driving is essential. It is also a good idea to consider adding child safety seats to your rental car, especially for children under six.
School drop-off and pickup lines can be crowded, so practicing proper drop-off etiquette is a good idea. This includes waiting patiently in the line without trying to jump ahead or cut off other parents. Using your vehicle’s turn signals to communicate with other drivers is also a good idea.
Most people renting cars in New York City will drive out of the city, so it is a good idea to be familiar with the local road conditions and weather. Snow and ice are common in the winter, so renting a car with four-wheel drive is essential. Summer roads can be hot and humid, so renting a car with air conditioning is a good idea. Rural roads outside the city can be prone to wildlife, so it is vital to slow down or stop if you see a deer or other large animal on the road.
Returning the Car
A car rental is an excellent option for those who need to travel beyond the confines of a city and its subway or public transportation system. However, you should know a few things before you pick up your car rental.
School drop-off and pickup lines can be hectic places where parents and guardians converge to ensure their children’s safe arrival and departure. Mastering drop-off and pickup line etiquette creates a more pleasant experience for those involved and sets a positive example for the children who observe these interactions.
Whether you are driving in New York or heading to other destinations, be aware of the following traffic laws and rules:
Drivers should always keep at least two seconds behind the car in front of them. When there is bad weather, this distance should be increased. Drivers should always yield to pedestrians, even crossing in a marked crosswalk, and driving while texting or using a phone while intoxicated is prohibited. Drivers should also refrain from using loud music or smoking in the vehicle.
Most major car rental companies have several locations throughout the city, including at the city’s airports. Many offer shuttle services for customers not within walking distance of their company’s office. In addition, most allow customers to return their rental cars at different locations, which may incur an extra fee.
