As in life freedom comes with responsibility, and so does with car or bike rentals.
To ensure that the rental industry continues seamlessly without either party losing trust in the other, the traveller must follow some basic rental etiquette.
Additionally, if you as a traveller are responsible and follow rental etiquette, it improves both the comfort & smoothness of your journey as well as the integrity of the entire rental industry.
To help you understand rental etiquette, this blog will provide you with the best 5 rental etiquette that will help you become a responsible renter.
Careful Handling Of The Rented Vehicle
One of the most important things that a traveller must act responsibly for is the handling and condition of the rented vehicle.
It is recommended that you treat the rented vehicle as your own and avoid any activities that may cause damage to the car like speeding, driving recklessly or carrying out aggressive maneuvers.
The traveller must also be aware of the size, shape and width of the vehicle and not take it to places that are not suitable as per its size.
Following Of All Traffic Rules
Following the traffic rules & regulations is not only the legal obligation of a traveller and driver but also their fundamental duty.
As fines and penalties have an impact on both the driver and the car, it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that they are aware of all the traffic rules of the place they are travelling in and are also following each one of them.
In order to avoid any traffic violation and a ticket, it is imperative that the traveller follows and adheres to all the speeding limits, parking regulations as well as traffic signs.
Immediately Report Any Damage or Issue With The Rental Car
Inspection of the rented vehicle before taking it off the premises of the rental company is another responsibility of the traveller.
If as a traveller, you check for every minor damage or issue that the car might have and report it immediately before driving the car off the rental company’s premises as well as taking pictures of it, then, you forego the chances of a dispute or extra charge later on.
Further, if you immediately report any damage or issue that the car might have during your rental period and click pictures of the same, then, you may avoid additional charges or responsibility if the damage becomes bigger after returning the car.
On-Time Return Of The Vehicle
One of the basic rental etiquette that a traveller must have is returning the rented vehicle on the day agreed on in the agreement.
Punctuality works a long way, especially in the rental industry.
In order to avoid any late fees (which can accumulate quickly if the rental company has a stringent late return policy), the traveller must ensure before or on-time return of the rented vehicle.
Timely return will also lead to a positive relationship with the rental company making future rentals much easier.
Appropriate Use Of The Vehicle
The rented car or bike must only be used for its intended purpose and not for activities that do not suit the vehicle.
For example, off-roading with a compact car is sheer recklessness and against the rental etiquette of a traveller.
Further, not using a rental car or bike for its intended purpose can also lead to damages to the car which can increase the cost to the traveller in the form of additional charges.
Conclusion
Adhering to rental etiquette helps the traveller foster a good relationship with the rental company.
In addition to the above-mentioned rental etiquette, a traveller must also keep in mind the fuel and smoking policy of the rental company and ensure that the rented vehicle is kept clean and tidy as well as if your plans change and you have to prepone or postpone the return of the vehicle, it should be immediately communicated with the rental company.
