Boost Your Protection When You Rent a Car

Car rental companies often offer a range of add-ons to boost your protection. Those include supplemental liability insurance and personal accident coverage.

Comparison shop to get the best rates. Prices differ between companies and even car sizes. Usually, cars are classified as economy or subcompact, compact, mid-size and standard/full size.

Rates

With so many rental car companies to choose from and fine print to sort through, it can be tough to know what to expect when renting a car. Experts say it’s important to do your research and ask plenty of questions to avoid unexpected fees. Some of these fees include prepaying for gas, the cost of a one-way fee and mileage restrictions. You should also consider whether you want to pay for extra insurance coverage.

The cost of a car rental can vary widely, depending on the vehicle type and the location. Some companies offer special deals during certain times of the year, such as weekends or holidays. Others charge higher rates during popular travel seasons or on a limited number of vehicles in specific categories. The size of the vehicle will also influence the rate. For example, an SUV is great for cruising down a Texas freeway but may not be the best choice for maneuvering narrow city streets.

Another way to reduce your car rental cost is to opt for a mid-size sedan instead of an SUV. Mid-size sedans are more fuel efficient and have ample room for luggage. Plus, they usually have lower insurance premiums than larger vehicles. If you’re unsure of what kind of vehicle to rent, check out the ratings and reviews on review sites. Then, compare the price and features to find the best deal.

If you’re a frequent renter, you might be able to get a better deal by joining a company’s loyalty program. These programs often offer member-exclusive discounts and perks like skip-the-line privileges. Some even provide complimentary upgrades or free rental days. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully, however, as these programs can be misleading.

If you are planning a long trip, you should try to book your car as far in advance as possible. This will help you avoid paying high prices during busy travel periods. In addition, it’s a good idea to check your itinerary regularly and make adjustments as needed. It’s also important to return the vehicle on time. Late returns can result in additional charges and a hassle for you and the rental car company.

Vehicles

When renting a car, it is important to understand the terms and conditions. Some companies may add fees to your rental contract without your knowledge. Others may have geographic restrictions on where you can take the vehicle. It is also a good idea to compare prices before renting. Some companies offer discounts to those who rent frequently, such as those in a union, AARP, or the military. These programs can save you a lot of money on rentals.

In addition to the base price of a vehicle, you will have to pay for extras like insurance and taxes. Many rental companies also charge for additional drivers. This can be a major expense if you are traveling with a family of four. It is best to book the vehicle you want online and avoid paying at the counter, where you are more likely to be charged extras.

The best way to get the best deal on a rental is to book it early. This will give you the best choice of vehicles and will help to prevent a car shortage at your destination. Besides, booking a car in advance will also help to avoid long lines at the counter.

Most rental cars have infotainment technology that allows you to connect your smartphone to the system and use it for navigation, hands-free calling, and streaming music. However, if you don’t delete this data before returning the car, it could be seen by future renters or even the rental company’s employees.

Before you return the car, make sure to do a full inspection of it. Check the exterior and interior, fuel levels, and general engine condition. Also, be sure to delete any personal information from the infotainment system. Leaving that data on the system can cause future renters and rental companies to see your phone number, location information, and call or text history. These details can be used to steal your identity and financial information. Moreover, this can lead to extra charges and fines if you don’t remove them. Fortunately, there are several ways to delete your info from a rented car.

Contracts

Car rental contracts protect the parties involved by ensuring that both sides agree on the terms and conditions of the agreement. These contracts typically include the name of the lessee (person leasing an automobile) and the lessor (owner of the vehicle). They also specify the amount owed and which party is responsible for insurance. These contracts may also specify any extra charges that will be incurred. For example, some car rental companies require that the vehicle be returned with a full tank of gas, so they will charge for the fuel used. Other extras that can be included in a contract are charges for equipment such as GPS units, ski racks or bicycle carriers.

Another important element of a car rental contract is the type of vehicle to be rented. Many companies offer several types of vehicles from which to choose, including sedans, sports cars and SUVs. Some even offer specialty cars, such as convertibles and convertible minivans. These cars can cost more to rent than standard automobiles, but they are ideal for special occasions, such as weddings or romantic getaways.

Most car rental companies require that the car be driven by only the renter or their spouse, domestic partner or regular employee incidental to business duties. However, some companies will allow an additional driver for a fee. A contract should also clearly state the maximum amount of miles that can be driven during the rental period. This is especially important if the renter will be traveling across different states or countries.

The contract should also include a statement that the renter agrees to return the vehicle in good condition and to follow all local and state laws regarding the operation of the vehicle. It should also specify the address and phone number of both parties. It should also provide a space for the signature of both parties. The contract should also clearly state whether or not the renter is willing to pay for any damages caused by the vehicle.

Some companies may offer a discount or other incentive for customers who book their rental car online. These discounts can help a consumer save money, so it is important to do some research before booking a car. Then, the consumer can make a wise choice and avoid paying unnecessary fees.

Insurance

Most people don’t rent cars frequently and may not be familiar with rental car insurance. This can make it easy to fall prey to the car rental company’s sales pitch for additional coverage, or “waivers,” that can be included with your rental agreement. Before you decide to purchase these extras, check with your own auto or homeowners insurance. Your own policy might cover rental car damage and theft. You also might already have supplemental liability coverage that pays lawsuit-related costs if you cause an accident in the rental car, or personal accident insurance covering medical expenses for you and your passengers regardless of who is at fault. In addition, your credit card may include rental car insurance.

Most states require rental car companies to offer minimum levels of liability insurance for the vehicle. If you want extra protection, a loss-damage waiver might be worth the cost of an additional $12 to $30 per day. It waives your responsibility for theft or damage to the rental car, and may include coverage for towing expenses, administrative fees and a replacement vehicle while the vehicle is being repaired.

Many people are also sold supplemental collision and comprehensive coverage to cover the car’s engine, wheels, windows and other parts not covered by the car rental company’s basic coverage. However, most people can save money by declining this type of insurance, which typically only covers a portion of the car’s value and doesn’t reduce the excess or deposit you pay when picking up your vehicle.

Lastly, rental car companies sometimes sell roadside assistance, which might be handy if you break down or lock your keys in the vehicle. You can often find better deals for this service by using your own insurance policy, a credit card, or an auto club membership.

Most rental cars come with three basic types of coverage: damage cover (technically known as Collision Damage Waiver), theft cover and third-party liability cover. You can buy a waiver to reduce or extend these standard policies, but remember that your own auto or home insurance may already provide these coverages.