Is it safe to use non-registered car rental companies abroad?
I frequently holiday abroad and have used many car hire companies with varying degrees of satisfaction. However, a friend has told me of a used care dealership that hires out cars below the hire car market rate, without complicated extras. The dealership is not registered or authorized to hire out cars, I am a careful driver and attracted by the rates, however, I feel a little uneasy, is there anything I should be aware of in using a non-registered or unauthorised car hire facility?
Asked on 25 May 2013 by JW, Lytham St Annes
Answered by
Honest John
More than 20 years ago I did a big feature for 'Auto Express' about 'Rent a Wreck', 'Practical Car Hire' and similar. We hired the cars, then got the AA to test them. Some were okay. Some not. But if renting a scratched and beaten up older car gets you out of any liability for dents and scratches, then that could save you a lot of money. Just as long as you are properly covered for any damage you inflict on anyone else.
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