Nowadays, renting a car is so common that for many people there is no need to buy their own vehicle. You can rent a car for the weekend in LA or for the cross-country trip to visit your favorite relatives. The other may use a rental car for a business trip or for exploring New York City on a romantic date. Over 1,5 million cars are rented daily all over the world. Now, imagine that in the USA alone, around 150,000 cars are being rented per day. What the numbers! Too high, aren’t they? However, unpleasant situations may still occur anywhere, which is why it’s essential to know your rights.
Terms of Agreement
The rental agreement is a legal document. Every client has to read the agreement before signing it, and you can’t skip it! Find some time to read it properly to know precisely what you have to do and when. Moreover, you must receive the full contract, which includes all additional terms, such as insurance, mileage limitations, fines, and return terms. The rental company has no right to change the terms of the contract after you have signed it without your consent. Let’s take car rental in Dubai as an example of one of the most popular services there. The UAE rental car services include mandatory insurance and require customers to adhere to specific rules. Being aware of your rights makes your trip smoother and more confident, whether you are driving in California or Dubai.
Fair Price
Every customer will be pleased to know that there are no additional hidden fees when returning a rental car. In the USA, the Federal Trade Commission keeps an eye on the secret payments. All the services must be mentioned in the agreement (from petrol to a personal driver). Of course, terms for hiring a car differ in each country. Thus, before going on vacation, check the rental details at the place you are visiting. The standard term in the UAE is to take a deposit and keep it for 60 more days after the client returns the car. The UAE is a high-tech, modern country, and speed cameras are everywhere, so a deposit is required to cover any fines that the driver may get while driving a rental vehicle.
Check then drive
You’d better check the car and take photos of the damage (if any) before driving it. Mention every scratch on the car body and check the lights everywhere. It is for your safety and to save your money. You may choose the best rental company in the USA, but being attentive at the beginning is the key to your further calmness.
Privacy
Most vehicles, especially the rental ones, have GPS installed for the car’s safety. When hiring a vehicle, you have to be informed about the car’s tracking system and how it operates. Also, you’d better tell the rental company if you are traveling far.
Renting Abroad
U.S. residents hiring cars abroad should be aware of special policies that are valid there. For instance, the driving licence has to be of an international standard. Age restrictions differ (16, 18, 23, or even 25 years for a specific class of car). If you are a young driver, be prepared to pay an additional daily fee. We can’t miss mentioning parking. In European countries and the UAE, there are strict restrictions on car parking, and fines for parking in the wrong place are extremely high. By the way, some countries have paid highways. The payment is automatically registered for a car by its number.
Renting a car gives you freedom, independence, and comfort; these are indisputable facts. Today, this option is also very common and available even from home (online). But in order to avoid getting into trouble, always stay smart. Read agreements thoroughly, write down all details, and discuss every expense possible, whether you are hiring a vehicle in your native country or abroad.
William Gall is a seasoned attorney specializing in civil litigation and family law. With a legal career spanning over two decades, William has built a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to justice. In addition to practicing law, he is a prolific writer, contributing regularly to various legal blogs where he shares his insights on current legal trends, case law, and best practices. His articles are well-regarded in the legal community for their thorough research and practical advice, making complex legal concepts accessible to both legal professionals and the general public.