Renting a car is a popular option for vacationers who want to explore areas on their own after flying there. However, these car rentals can create added problems and danger for those who live in areas that see a lot of tourism, such as South Florida.
Here are some of the issues rental car drivers can cause:
Unpredictable driving
Miami is known as one of the most challenging cities for driving. A visitor from out of town won’t have the same local knowledge of the roads and area. They might drive the wrong way down a one-way street or suddenly slow or stop out of the blue to check their route, surprising other road users.
Unfamiliar vehicles
It takes a while to get used to driving a new vehicle. All rental car drivers should take time to read the manual, learn where everything is and set up the vehicle for maximum comfort. They should then drive with caution until they gain a better understanding of how hard or soft the brakes are, how the car handles in corners and the like. Yet many rental drivers jump straight into the driver’s seat and set off without doing any of this, which could lead to problems down the road.
Alcohol and distraction
Summer vacations often involve a lot of alcohol. Even if a driver refrains from drinking during the day, their driving may still be affected by heavy consumption the night before. Vacations can also be tiring, which reduces a driver’s safety further. On top of that, drivers can easily get distracted by their passengers or what they see out the window in a new place.
Anyone injured by someone driving a rental car should learn more about how to claim compensation. Getting legal guidance can help.