Renting a car on vacation, especially abroad, remains a reflex for many. It must be said that it is often the only way to get out of big cities, to explore isolated corners and not to depend on the random timetables in public transport. Being able to move when you want, where you want, represents a certain freedom. But car rental can quickly become a headache. Between the models to choose, insurance with blurred conditions and small lines to read in contracts, many travelers get lost. And comparing prices, locating deductibles or avoiding hidden costs also requires time and attention.
In addition, once there, in case of concern with the vehicle, things can quickly be complicated. Abroad, between the language, the local rules and the practices of the rental companies, the exchanges quickly become fuzzy. We think we have understood, we sign, and it is often when making the vehicle that troubles start. Additional costs appear to be the wear of tires, scratches on the body, the housing of the too dirty car … So many details that can increase the note, even if you are there for nothing. Some unscrupulous rental companies take the opportunity to make you pay more and assign you unjustified damage.
To anticipate these additional costs, there is a reflex to have when you make the rental car: take a detail video of the vehicle, as if you were making a sort of inventory. But beware, it is not enough to take out your phone and film in a hurry. As Julien Courbet explained in the program “It can happen to you” on RTLyou have to be precise. To do this, start by filming yourself by indicating the date, time, where you are, and show the agency’s facade or the place where you restore the vehicle – especially if the agency is closed. This allows you to set the context. Then film the outside of the car as a whole, then zoom in on any scratches or defects (bodywork, tires, etc.). Specify whether these elements were already reported in the contract. Do not forget the interior of the vehicle either, clearly showing its general condition. Once finished, this video will be proof of your good faith, in case. We are never too careful!
This type of precaution is all the more useful since the appeals, once returned home, are often long and complicated. A well -made video can make all the difference if you have to challenge costs with the rental company or your insurance. And better a few minutes of vigilance than weeks of dispute.
