When going through the process of booking a rental vehicle, you may be overwhelmed by all the rules and restrictions that the car hire companies place on you. However, these rules are in place for a reason and if they are abided by, you can avoid hidden costs and charges and make your car hire experience a smooth one. The following rules are among the most important things to keep in mind while booking, picking up, driving and returning your rental vehicle:
Driving Off-Road
Every Australian car hire company places restrictions on where the rental vehicle can be taken. As a general rule, vehicles cannot be taken off road; they can only be driven on sealed, known roads. Most of the companies will actually advise of the specific places the vehicles are restricted from, and many of these lists include such places as Fraser Island, the Savannah Way and Arnhem Land.
However, if you disregard the rental agreement and DO take the vehicle off-road, you will most likely be caught and if damage occurs to the vehicle, you, as the driver, will be held completely liable.
This rule exists to maintain the vehicle in a good condition and to avoid damage that can occur off-road. Following this rule will ensure that your insurance on the vehicle remains valid and that you will not be held liable if off-road damage occurs.
Driver's Age
When booking a rental vehicle, you MUST be the age of at LEAST 25. For insurance purposes, all car hire companies require that the holder of the booking be this age, as it reduces costs for both themselves and you.
Proof of age must be produced upon pick up of the vehicle as this will ensure that the rental agreement is valid. Although you have to be 25 to book the vehicle, additional drivers over the age of 21 are also permitted to enter the rental agreement and drive the vehicle. Essentially, there is no way around this rule, so before you even think of hiring a vehicle, be sure that you are 25 first.
Additional Drivers
Most car rental companies allow for additional drivers at no additional cost, but some branches will charge a minimal fee. The only condition about additional drivers is that they are present at the pick up of the vehicle to show proof of age, a valid driver's licence and to sign the rental agreement.
This rule is in place largely for insurance purposes. If the car is involved in an accident, when an unauthorised driver was driving the vehicle, insurance may not cover you and you may be held liable. Therefore, it is best to advise the rental company of any additional drivers, before you commence your journey.
Vehicle Use Restrictions
While driving your rental vehicle you will be faced with several, very fair, restrictions. As a general rule for most car hire companies, the vehicle must not be used:
- For any illegal purpose
- To push or tow anything
- To sublet to any other person or to make money
- To transport any animal
Vehicle Maintenance
Although this may seem common sense, the vehicle must be maintained throughout the duration of the rental and must be returned in the same condition as it was picked up in. This refers to the interior and exterior of the vehicle, which should be carefully maintained to ensure no damage occurs to the vehicle.
Following these simple rules will ensure that you are not hit with any hidden costs and that the insurance you have taken out will cover you at all times.
