Everything You Should Avoid When Renting a Car

During the summer season, the number of journeys on Spanish roads reaches its peak, with new trends emerging among users, such as an increased inclination towards renting vehicles. However, when doing so, it is crucial to be aware of the most common mistakes, especially when bookings are made online.

"Renting a car in summer offers users the opportunity to explore and discover new places with the utmost freedom. Additionally, it represents a flexible, safe, comfortable, and sustainable mobility option," says Juan Luis Barahona, Executive President of the National Business Federation of Vehicle Rental with and without Driver, Feneval.

For instance, firstly, not thoroughly reading the contract. It is important, as with any other product or service, to carefully read the rental car contract before booking to avoid surprises stemming from ignorance of its terms. This could lead to extra charges for issues such as exceeding the daily mileage limit, which some companies impose.

Being unaware of the insurance coverage. To avoid unpleasant surprises during your travels, it is crucial to review the insurance coverage included in the rental contract by studying the clauses in detail. The policy can range from basic third-party insurance, where the driver responsible for the accident must cover all costs incurred to the rental vehicle; to comprehensive insurance with a deductible, where the accident's cause must generally assume up to 1,000 euros in expenses; to full comprehensive insurance, where it is unlikely that the driver who caused the accident will have to make any payment.

Ensuring the company's policy in case of an accident or theft is crucial to handle it correctly and prevent the situation from worsening or the insurance not covering the damages, which could result in additional charges by the rental company to the contract holder. It is essential to have both the emergency numbers provided by the company and the insurance policy number at hand.

Failing to inspect the car before departure. One of the main mistakes drivers make when renting a vehicle is not inspecting it and documenting any potential damages with photos, both inside and outside, especially regarding scratches or small dents that may go unnoticed by rental company employees and could lead to future disputes, attributing the imperfections to your driving or poor vehicle care. It is also important to take photos when returning the car to justify its condition at the end of the contract.

Returning the car with less fuel than agreed. Violating this point of the rental agreement often results in significant surcharges by rental companies, making it crucial to check the fuel policy, which may involve two scenarios: picking up the vehicle with a full tank and returning it in the same condition or, conversely, receiving it with an empty tank and returning it similarly.

Returning the vehicle outside the agreed schedule. This issue can lead to a significant increase in your rental bill, which could include charges by the hour or even for a full day if not returned before the contract's specified time. Additionally, being outside the schedule could mean that if an incident occurs, the insurance will not cover it, as the contract has expired.

Moreover, it is mandatory for the contract to list the individuals who will drive the vehicle, ensuring they are fully identified and clearly eligible to operate it. Factors such as age or driving experience help companies determine if they are suitable to drive a vehicle from their fleet and even set specific vehicle models. Any damage caused by an unauthorized driver will be the sole responsibility of the contract holder.