Understanding Car Rental and Sharing Services: Learning About the Service Providers
Driving a foreign car or borrowing a friend's vehicle on vacation or during other occasions can be an exciting experience, but it's essential to familiarize yourself with the controls before hitting the road. Here are some steps to help you get acquainted with the vehicle's features.
Before you even start the engine, spend a few minutes reviewing the dashboard, controls, and features while the car is stationary. Locate essential controls like lights, windshield wipers, turn signals, gear shift, climate controls, and the infotainment system.
Check for any digital displays or touchscreen interfaces and understand basic functions such as how to adjust the volume, navigation, or phone connectivity (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), which some modern cars have.
If the car or carsharing app provides an owner's manual or quick-start guide (digital or physical), review it briefly. Many services include guides highlighting key vehicle functions.
Familiarize yourself with safety features if available, such as driver-assist systems (lane keeping, blind spot alert, adaptive cruise control) to understand what the vehicle can do to help you.
If possible, ask for a quick orientation from the rental or carsharing provider or an experienced user.
Adjust seats, mirrors, and steering wheel first, so you can reach all controls comfortably before driving.
In some cases, you might find videos or tutorials for specific car models from the manufacturer or sharing service online that explain the controls in detail.
Taking a few minutes upfront to familiarize yourself reduces distractions while driving and increases safety. This approach applies to both foreign cars and carsharing vehicles where you might be unfamiliar with the layout or technology.
By following these steps, you'll be better prepared to enjoy your journey without the added stress of navigating an unfamiliar vehicle. Happy travels!
[1] Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and various car rental and carsharing companies' guidelines.
Prior to embarking on your journey, scrutinize the car's technology and gadgets, such as the infotainment system and safety features, to understand their functions. Spare a few moments to explore the car's other lifestyle aspects, like adjusting the seats, mirrors, and steering wheel to ensure a comfortable driving experience.
