People think renting a car nowadays is straightforward and without any hassle. However, that is not the case if you are not careful. Although new-age technologies and apps have made car rentals much more accessible, there are still many factors that you cannot ignore when renting a car. Let us discuss these six factors in some detail.
- Taxes And Fees
Taxes and fees are an essential part of the final cost of renting a car. These fees and taxes vary by state and can add up to a large percentage of the total rental price. Often, local fees and taxes exceed 20% of the total rental cost. Check with your rental agency for details. The first step in comprehending how much you will be charged is to compare rental car prices. Comparing rental car prices will save you money, whether you’re taking a weekend trip or a cross-country road trip. Remember to compare the base price because added fees can raise the base price drastically. Rental car companies add state, city, and county taxes and their own sales tax rates.
- Rental Car Insurance
When renting a car, you must have the right insurance policy. Usually, you will need collision and comprehensive coverage, but you may also want to purchase Loss Damage Waiver insurance for additional protection. Collision coverage protects you if you cause an accident or cause damage to the rented car. In addition to comprehensive and collision coverages, you will need liability insurance. Without it, you will need to pay for repairs to other people’s cars. Most States mandate drivers to carry auto liability insurance. Make sure you comprehend what your rental agreement states about liability insurance and damage fees.
- Car Inspections
Many car renters, unfortunately, do not realize the value of conducting a comprehensive car inspection before renting their cars. A thorough car inspection can ensure that your rental vehicle is in good condition and is fit to drive. Furthermore, inspecting before and after your rental can save you a lot of headaches in the future. Many renters have reported saying that they have been held accountable for damages that did not occur during their possession of the car. However, most do not have the means to prove it because they did not conduct a car inspection. You can quickly take a 360° video of the car or click multiple pictures before and after your rental. Doing this will give you ample evidence to prove that you are not responsible for any damages. Companies like Inspektlabs are automating the car inspection process through digital vehicle inspections. When renting a car, look for rental agencies that offer automated inspections. These inspections are objective and leave no scope for false claims.
- Vehicle Size
Vehicle size is a crucial factor to consider when renting a car. There are several sizes available, from compact to full size. Choosing the right size for your trip is essential regardless of where you rent the vehicle. Knowing what car you need can make renting more accessible and more affordable. Opting for a larger vehicle is best if traveling long distances with many passengers. Compact cars are fuel-efficient and can accommodate a small group of people and their luggage. However, they are inadequate when it comes to legroom and luggage space.
- Number Of Drivers
The number of drivers you can add to a rental car depends on the type of car you are renting. If you are traveling alone, you may want to limit the number of drivers. Adding an extra driver can reduce the time spent at rest areas and hotels. In some cases, an additional driver may be free of charge. You can add another person to the package if you have more than one driver on your rental agreement. The system will then calculate the additional driver’s charges for the period the other driver is listed on the contract. Additionally, the additional driver may be charged an additional daily fee.
- Insurance Coverage Options
Insurance coverage options when renting a car can offer peace of mind and coverage in various scenarios. For example, collision damage waiver and loss damage waiver insurance can protect you in the event of a car accident or theft. Additionally, if you rent a car for an extended period, you should consider purchasing a non-owner auto insurance policy. It can give you the added advantage of a personal auto insurance policy without extra costs. Your insurance coverage will depend on whether you use the rental car for business or recreation.
- Conclusion
If you pay close attention to these six crucial factors, your car rental experience will be much smoother. If you are unsure about these aspects of your rental agreement, please raise the concern before your journey starts. Most reputable rental agencies will address your concerns right away.
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