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Driving
a rented car can be just as easy and safe as driving your own
automobile-with the right preparation. How can you be sure that
you're properly prepared each time you drive a rental? Here are
some National Safety Council suggestions that can help to put
you on the road to car rental success, especially where your safety
is concerned.
Getting
to Know You
- Don't
rent a vehicle larger than you are physically capable of controlling.
- Spend
a few minutes getting acquainted with your rental car.
- Take
a look at the dashboard. Note the location of the speedometer,
the temperature gauge, the gas gauge and so on.
- Locate
the air conditioner, heater, windshield wiper and washer, defroster,
and light switches. Turn them on and off to make sure that you
know how they work.
- Test
the brakes-with the engine running-to get the "feel"
of them. Some brakes are "softer" than others, and
you don't want to discover this when you're stopping for the
first red light. At the same time, get the "feel of the
wheel" by testing the "play" in the steering
wheel. Make sure the hand brake works.
Check
It Out
It's a good idea to inspect the rented car to make sure that everything
is in working order.
- Be
sure the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated or overinflated
tires can greatly affect your safety, especially at high speeds.
- Check
the headlights. Know where the switch is even if you'll only
be driving during daylight hours-you might suddenly find yourself
driving through a tunnel or facing a weather front in which
you would want to turn on your lights. Do the lights work on
bright and dim?
- Test
the turn signals, windshield wipers and horn for any operating
problems.
- Inspect
the contents of the trunk. It should have a spare tire and a
jack in it. Inquire about the availability of an emergency road
kit if you're interested in extra protection, or provide your
own.
- If
you need special equipment, such as chains for driving on ice
or child restraint seats, be sure to ask for it before you leave
the rental lot.
- Check
for any scratches or dents and report them to the rental agency
before you leave the premises. Although these will probably
not affect the car's performance, you do not want to be held
responsible for them when you return the automobile. (CONTINUE...)
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