hire a car

When you hire a car, mini bus or a van, it can be confusing not knowing exactly what you are covered for; this is the case for people who are hiring cars, vans or mini buses for the very first time.

hire a carMany companies will make it their business that the jargon and extras should be explained in a very clear and concise way, and making sure that all their customers understands how it works. There are many added extras and benefits when it comes to taking out additional protection, you should make sure that you understand them all, what you don’t understand just ask.

Cover in your quote

It is customary when you hire a vehicle from a rental company for them to include in your quote a basic level of cover for the vehicle hired, this is in case you should you be unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident.

This cover is mandatory; however there are some drivers who have a prearranged cover which is at a contracted rate; this can be discussed with the company representative when you take out the vehicle hire.

There is the opportunity to take out additional cover on your vehicle. This can be of benefit to the driver, and does come with an extra charge above the cost of the quoted vehicle hire.  If you are interested in any additional cover and would like to know what it entails, then you should talk to a member of staff at the time of booking your vehicle or collecting your vehicle.

There is the addition of a Personal Accident Cover which may be of benefit to you; however, before you take this out, you should consider checking your own travel insurance to see what is covered in it as you may be covered for some of the same things as you would be under a Personal Accident Cover package.

You may be insured against the driver suffering personal injury for example, it is not worth paying for it twice. However, if you are not covered as the driver for personal injury, then Personal Accident Cover can insure the driver against personal injury to both himself/herself and the passengers in the vehicle in the event of an accident. This is paid in addition to your vehicle hire cost.

Child seats – UK law

It is UK law that all children under the age of 12 or fewer than 135cm in height must be seated in a child seat when travelling in the car. There are times when there can be an exception to the rule. The exception to the rule includes the fact that if you are travelling by Taxi or Mini cab, then the child must be harnessed in the back of the Taxi.

Most companies will boast a range of different car seats to suit the needs of their customers; this can be arranged on booking. However, if you are not entirely sure which car seat you require for your child, there is normally some explanation on the site regarding sizes, but you can speak to the company themselves who will be more than happy to help you to find the right car seat for your child. There will be an additional charge for children’s seats for your hire car. As a rough guide:

  • Baby car seats – 0 – 13kg, suitable for 0-9months
  • Infant car seats – 9 – 18kg suitable for 9 months to 4 years
  • Child seats – 15 – 36kg suitable for children under 135cm

Some companies will also have booster seats for hire which may be of use to older children who are short in height.

Robert J Hudson is a chief writer for MVR Vehicle Hire, passionate nutritionist and personal trainer. Over the years he has shared his experience by writing for many different magazines and blogs. Connect with him on Google+.