It's been said that most auto accidents take place within one mile of either your departure or destination site. What's more, dozens of auto accidents take place within just a few hundred feet of the rental company's lot. We've all done it—hopped in the vehicle, started it up, and headed out into a strange new place without a second thought about safety. Before you speed off into the sunset, stop and take a moment to get your bearings. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you familiarize yourself with any independent rental car.
Inspect and Start Up (0:00–1:45)
- 00:01 — Check the car inside and out for dings, scratches, rips, stains, tears, or other damage. Document everything you see to protect yourself from unfair accusations.
- 01:01 — Start the vehicle. Let the engine warm up before venturing into traffic. This also helps you determine if the car is running normally.
- 01:15 — Locate the heater/AC. A dark-colored car can be an oven in hot weather, especially with a matching dark interior.
- 01:45 — Consult your map or GPS. Rental car lots can be difficult to navigate out of. Getting your directional bearings will make merging into traffic much easier.
Adjust and Familiarize (4:15–7:30)
- 04:15 — Adjust your mirrors. This simple step is often overlooked and can be problematic if attempted while driving.
- 05:15 — Figure out the radio. More accidents stem from drivers fiddling with the radio than from cell phones. Find your stations before driving.
- 07:15 — Find the window controls. You don't want to fumble around when you reach the first tollbooth or parking lot attendant.
- 07:30 — Locate the turn signals. Despite changes over the years, these have changed very little in terms of location.
Final Checks (7:45–10:00)
- 07:45 — Figure out the windshield wipers. They can be hard to operate in the moment of panic when rain starts in an unfamiliar car.
- 08:00 — Locate the lights, especially the high beams. This will save you from ticking off other drivers and local law enforcement.
- 08:30 — Find the fuel door control. Get the embarrassment of popping the trunk instead of the fuel door out of your system before the gas station.
- 08:45 — Locate the emergency brake. You don't want the smell of burning brakes following you out of the rental lot.
- 09:00 — Put her in gear and head for the exit.
- 10:00 — Head out into the world. Be safe out there!
Preparation is the most important part of any car rental travel itinerary. Proper preparation can save you valuable time and money, as well as improve the safety of your rental.
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