Driving Tips
Tips for Driving a Vehicle Abroad
We thought of all of the questions that you may have prior to your departure for your vacation...
Have You Booked a Car?
It is advised that you reserve your rental car already in Israel a month in advance, and combined with booking your airline tickets.
This is especially recommended during the high tourism seasons and when there is a need for a minivan or an automatic vehicle.
The appropriate choice of a rental car abroad may be found to be an important choice for the success of the vacation, so it is advised to consider not necessarily the lowest priced offer, as at times the prices among the vehicle groups do not differ significantly, however, the differences in size and comfort may be substantial.
Traffic Laws Abroad
As traveling to a foreign country and as a tourist you are obligated to be familiar with the traffic laws applicable in the country or countries you are going to visit, and you should study these beforehand. In every country there are different restrictions regarding the legal speed limits and the international traffic signs. For instance, throughout Europe there is a restriction on the traffic interlocking into the city centers. As in any other place, a lack of attention to traffic signs may result in receiving a traffic ticket, which will be sent by the local authority to the rental company, which will then charge handling fees for turning over your contact information to the local authority. Update the rental company regarding all of the countries to which you plan to travel with the vehicle, and check whether there are any restrictions on the driving routes. In the case of car rentals between different countries or even between different stations within the same city, there may be an additional charge - it is advised that you check in advance.
Failure of the Rental Vehicle
Should a technical problem arise during the vehicle rental, you should call the rental company or road services provider. In most cases the road services provider's telephone number will appear on the vehicle keys, lease or vehicle booklet. The rental company will assist by sending a technician. In case it will not be possible to fix the problem at the site, the vehicle will be towed to a garage and there you will receive instructions as to how to proceed.
An Accident with the Rented Vehicle
If during the car rental you should G-d forbid be involved in an accident, you should report to the local police at once, as well as to the rental company to receive guidance on how to proceed. Surely you will be asked to fill out an accident report including any third party information (if necessary). If you have purchased deductible reimbursement insurance, this report will be essential while filing an insurance claim.
Refueling the Vehicle
In most cases, the vehicle is delivered with a full tank of gas, and so it should also be returned. In case you receive the car with a tank that is not full, make sure this is noted on the lease. Be sure to fill the appropriate type of fuel for the car (its details appear on the tank and vehicle booklet). Please save the last gas receipt.
Car Rental Abroad with Children
Before you place an order for booking a rental car, take into account the number of children traveling with you, the strollers and the amount of equipment you will bring along for your vacation. It is recommended to rent a large vehicle: a Station wagon, jeep or minivan, so that children will have enough room to play during the long rides.
And most importantly... good and safe driving!