Are there any pitfalls to hiring a car I should be aware of?

Q. I am travelling interstate and need to rent a car for the first time. Are there any terms or conditions that I should be aware of before I sign on the dotted line?

A. Car hire companies vary greatly when it comes to policies and insurance cover. You can minimise any problems that may arise by making sure that you have done the following:

• Inspect the car when you receive it and make note of any pre-existing scratches or dents. Get your car hire company to sign this sheet of paper and make a copy of it for you. Taking some photos on your mobile phone or camera can also protect you as you will have photographic evidence should any issues arise.
• If you plan to take your car on a ferry, make sure that the terms and conditions allow you to do so.
• If you are crossing borders or going between countries in Europe, you might like to make sure the terms and conditions allow interstate or inter-country travel. Do you have to return the car to the point of origin? Or can you drop it off in another at another point on your journey?
• Make sure you know exactly what sort of damage is covered by your insurance. This can be as simple as a dent in the car park or damage caused by hitting an animal that is crossing the road.
• If you think you may be using toll roads, ask about the protocol for paying the toll so that you can avoid hefty fines. Each state differs and just asking the question can save you a lot of money.
• Make sure you know exactly how the rental company want their car returned and to where you are to return it. Do they require you to wash it, fill up the tank etc?

If you take care to address these points, you are minimising any risks or costs that may be incurred. Remember that when travelling by car, mechanical issues can arise. In any case, the car rental company should be more than happy to attend to your concerns.