Many people are now embracing the peer-to-peer car sharing services offered by various companies across the world. Instead of buying a car—which you rarely use in the first place—and leave it sitting in your garage for weeks, why not make some extra income and rent it out?
On the other hand, if you don’t own a car, why buy one when you can conveniently get one anytime you need it at an affordable rate. Simply put, we all don’t need to buy cars. Car sharing provides solutions for both buyers and sellers.
Drivers use apps to find the type of vehicle that meets their needs and pay for the rental. Other benefits include availability, variety, affordability, and convenience. Here are a few car sharing tips for both borrowers.
1. Take Advantage of the Discounts
Don’t miss an opportunity that could save you several dollars in a car-sharing service. Most service providers offer discounts in the form of bonus minutes for first-time borrowers and loyal clients. Be sure to subscribe to their newsletters or follow them on their social media platforms for updates. Some will give you a generous discount if you invite other drivers to borrow cars from their sites.
However, don’t just look at the crazy discounts. Check if there are any hidden charges aside from the posted price. Compare with other companies to make sure the deal isn’t too exaggerated. Read reviews and make an informed judgment.
2. Return the Vehicle on Time
Every car has a specific spot that must be returned after use. Once you’re done, be sure to take the vehicle to the designated location so other members who need to use the car can have easier access. If there are no specific spots mentioned, please enquire and take it on time.
Remember when the vehicle is in your hands, it’s your responsibility to take care of it until it is safely handed back to its owner. So, avoid parking in risky areas or driving through unsafe areas.
3. Fill the Gas Tank
Most car sharing services have different ways of dealing with fuel. In most cases, you will be handed an already fueled vehicle. But once the fuel tank goes below 1/4, you are expected to fill it up and get bonus minutes for your next trip. Some companies have their own gas cards that drivers should use to pay for gas and receive credit on their next invoice.
4. If You Will Be Late, Inform
Never return a vehicle later than the time you had previously agreed. To avoid such mishaps, book more time than you think you’ll need when using the car. You never know how bad traffic can get or how long unexpected situations can hold you up. While this is primarily expected from time to time, it’s not acceptable, and you will ultimately have to deal with penalties.
If you will be late, it’s essential that you call your car sharing company, in case another driver is waiting to use the vehicle. This will allow your company to notify the other driver that you are on your way.
5. Report Damages if Any
Just like your own car, anything can happen with a borrowed car. However, it’s imperative to report any dings and dents once they occur. You will be held financially accountable for any damage caused to the vehicle due to miscalculations, errors, and other mistakes.
Failure to report leads to inappropriate charges by the company. While car owners are required to deliver well-maintained cars, it’s also a driver’s responsibility to check the car’s condition before booking. Always return the vehicle in clean and good condition. Don’t leave your things or trash in the vehicle.
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