Rental without the shenanigans

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There are a wide variety of car rental companies. In addition to the well-known Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt, there are other local providers, large and small, internationally. On the Internet, prices can be compared and cars can be booked – this also applies to extras such as navigation devices, child seats, winter tires or additional drivers. However, you should heed these six tips when booking a rental car.

You should first check the terms of the contract online. Depending on the car rental company, the minimum age can vary between 19 and 25. Fast and expensive cars usually have a minimum age of 25. Check that the contract does not specify a mileage limit. The use of ferries and unpaved roads is generally prohibited.

Liability and comprehensive insurance are essential to cover vehicle damage and personal injury. Liability insurance must cover damages of at least two million Swiss francs. If necessary, it’s worth paying a small surcharge for full coverage to set the exemption to zero.

Despite the insurance, you must pay a deposit for any damage when picking up the bike. This is usually done with a credit card. But beware: Some rental companies insist that the credit card belongs to the driver. The reservation must also be made using this card, otherwise some providers will refuse to deliver the rental car.

Some hosts offer the option to pay the deposit in cash, but not at all branches. The amount of the deposit depends, among other things, on the price range of the rented car and the exemption.

Outside of Europe, you will need an international driver’s license, which you can obtain for a fee from the cantonal road traffic office. As this is only a translation, you should also have your Swiss driver’s license with you.

Joint patrol with the rental company is particularly important when taking over the rental vehicle. Carefully check for damage and record it in the handover protocol. Typical minor damage to rental cars is dents or dents after parking bumps or scratched wheels. Check the tyres (winter tires or summer tyres?), treads, brakes and legally required equipment – once agreed you are responsible for their completeness. When picking up the vehicle, clarify how you should act in the event of an accident or damage. In the event of an accident, you usually have to call the police.

It is important that you walk around the car together when you return it to avoid any damage later. If you don’t deliver in person, it’s worth taking pictures of the damage and new ones recorded with your smartphone. When you get home, be sure to check your credit card statement to make sure no additional charges have been charged and the deposit has been refunded. Any fines are also usually charged to the credit card without consulting.

Source: Blick