Before you receive the key, it is crucial that you get familiar with the rental agreement. A well-prepared contract saves both you and the rental agency much time, miscommunication and misunderstandings.
The following guide gives you a brief overview of all the important aspects of a self drive car rental policy: insurance, security deposit, mileage and much more.
What Should You Be Looking Out For When Signing a Self Drive Car Rental Policy?
Prior to signing the self drive car rental policy, you should review the important terms of the contract. It is not advisable that you do not focus only on the brand of the car and its cost. The rental agreement must cover who can drive the car, what documents are needed, pick-up and drop-off times, fuel terms, insurance policy, deposit amount, and damage fees, to name a few.
A good self drive car rental policy should be clear, simple, and easy to understand.
What is typically covered by Car Rental Insurance Kerala?
Car rental insurance Kerala plays a very crucial role in any car rental policy. While looking into the insurance policy, you should inquire whether it provides accidental damage coverage, third-party liability, and theft protection. Different vehicles and car rental companies have different insurance policies, and you should clarify all the terms and conditions before the rental.
Typically, insurance would cover:
- Accidental damages of the rented car
- Third-party damages or liabilities, depending on the policy
- Theft protection if there is such in the policy
- Damages within the officially sanctioned rental period only
What Is Not Covered Under Rental Insurance?
All self drive car rental policy normally has some exclusions, and this where most customers get puzzled. In the event that the customer violates any of these exclusions, then insurance policy for the customer becomes null and void. Here are some of the exclusions you need to keep in mind:
- Driving while drunk or intoxicated
- Permitting unauthorized individuals to drive
- Irresponsible or rash driving
- Traffic penalties and parking fines
- Tyre, mirror, under body, clutch, interior damage if not covered
- Keys loss, papers, or other equipment or accessories
- Driving in restricted areas without authorization
What is a Security Deposit on a Self Drive Car Rental Policy?
The security deposit is the money paid before taking the journey as a form of insurance against any outstanding charges or fees. It is important to understand that the security deposit is not another charge for renting the car. Please confirm from the rental agency that if the car is brought back on time, in good condition, then the security deposit must be refunded to you in full.
When is Security Deposit Not Refunded in Full?
Money is deducted from the security deposit in case of any breach in the terms of the contract. Some causes for deduction could include minor damages or scratches, late return, lack of fuel, additional cleaning expenses, missing accessories, traffic offenses, and/or additional kilometers in the case of mileage limits.
Is There Unlimited Kilometers Car Rental in Kerala?
You need to understand the concept of unlimited kilometer car rental in the right perspective. Some of the companies offer a fixed number of kilometer per day for your use. Going beyond that limit means you will incur additional costs for each kilometer traveled. This is what makes your journey more expensive.
What we advise is opting for unlimited kilometer car rental. Under this kind of contract, there is no need to worry about the extra kilometers. It is especially helpful for places like Kochi to Munnar, Kochi to Alleppey, Hill Station Tour and Kerala Tour.
Other Self Drive Car Rental Policies to Consider?
Apart from the policies related to insurance and deposits, there are other practical considerations that you need to keep in mind. Consider the following:
- Fuel: Is it expected to return the vehicle at the same fuel tank level?
- Time: What will happen in case you delay the time of returning?
- Cancelling: Can you get a refund in case of cancellations?
- Area of travel: Can you travel outside the city/state limits?
- Cleanliness: Are there any additional charges for cleaning?
- Support: Does roadside assistance exist?
Pro-Tips from Kottayam Cars
At Kottayam Cars we try to educate customers with rules, regulations, and transparent policies that everyone needs to be aware of. Be wary to ask your car rental company these:
- Travel Policy to Hill Stations: In case you intend to go to Munnar, Wayanad, Vagamon, Thekkady, or Ponmudi, find out if driving to hill stations is permitted, and if there are any conditions of the type that may arise while driving on steep roads.
- Policy for driving during monsoon: Monsoons in Kerala could result in slippery roads, limited visibility, water logging, and landslides due to hilly terrain. You must revisit the terms of the contracts while driving during heavy rains.
- Permitted Interstate travel: If you wish to travel to Tamil Nadu or Karnataka from Kerala, find out if such interstate travels are permitted.
- Responsibility for traffic penalties: Traffic penalties include speeding violations, parking violations, or challan via cameras during the time period of rental.
- Breakdowns and roadside assistance: Find out about the kind of breakdowns assistance you get in case the rented vehicle breaks down on your journey route.
How Can You Avoid in Any Additional Charge?
You can avoid all additional charge by maintaining all rules and terms in the self-drive car rental agreement. But no matter what, keep everything documented, check your vehicle before starting your journey and make sure to drive responsibly. You have nothing to worry about.
Are You Ready To Book Your Car? Contact Kottayam Cars Now!