Seven Florida Car Rental Safety Tips From a Boca Raton Injury Lawyer

Going on vacation? Whether you are renting a car while you visit Florida or are renting a car in Florida to drive out-of-state, you want the vehicle you pay for to be safe.

We all assume that rental cars have the same safety features as other vehicles on the road. But this isn’t always true. Between 2006 and 2008, General Motors offered fleet buyers, including rental companies, a discount on cars without side airbags. These models had high safety ratings in part because side airbags were standard.

Boca Raton injury lawyer David Glatthorn suggests the following when you are renting a car in Florida:

1. If possible, rent a car that is similar to the vehicle that you normally drive. You don’t want to deal with an unfamiliar vehicle while driving unfamiliar roads.
2. Find out in advance which the make, model and year of the car you will be renting.
3. Check the safety rating of your rental.
4. Find out if there have been any recalls on the vehicle. Ask the rental agent whether these recalls have been addressed. Many car rental companies rent recalled vehicles even when they have not been repaired.
5. Pick up the vehicle in person. Check for airbags (SRS emblem), working seat belts, and anti-lock brakes. Make sure the tires are in good condition. If you know about cars, look under the hood. If you see any problems, request another vehicle.
6. Take a test drive. Make sure that you can operate the vehicle and that you can see well. If the car has large blind spots or a hazy windshield, request a vehicle with better visibility.
7. If you are injured in an accident involving a Florida rental car, contact a Boca Raton car crash attorney. Your lawyer will help you deal with the insurance company and car rental company so you can focus on getting well.

To learn more, request a free copy of The Florida Accident Workbook: Tools, Tips & Tactics to Resolve Your Injury Claim or contact Boca Raton accident attorney David Glatthorn at 866-413-5525.