Can car rental provide a safe alternative to public transport?

Although restrictions are easing following measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, many people may not feel entirely confident about using public transport to travel.

For those who still need to travel for work or other reasons, could car rental services provide a safe solution, at least in the short-term?

A viable substitute for public transport?

Opting to get a car on a short-term lease reduces the likelihood of contact with lots of other people, which in theory should make travel safer (especially for those who regularly rely on taxi services, for example).

Add in the flexibility and privacy that a car subscription offers, and it suddenly seems to be a viable option for those needing to travel regularly.

It also enables drivers to get behind the wheel of some of the latest makes and models of vehicle, but without the costs of ownership.

Instead, it’s possible to get a new vehicle on a deal for as little as one, two or six months in the short term, or for longer if required.

Alternatively, car hire could be another option in the short term, particularly if you do not wish to commit to a lease agreement.

At a time when household income has taken a hit and when people are assessing their expenditure, this could prove to be a more cost-effective means of travel.

Of course, this approach is not without its limitations though, as parking is required – something often lacking in many cities.

Factor in insurance

As with driving any sort of vehicle on the road, using a lease car will require you to have at least a certain level of insurance.

Most lease agreements do not typically include insurance, so you’ll be responsible for ensuring that you have adequate cover in place until the point your lease contract is finished.

But you can potentially keep costs down by carefully researching the insurance you opt for – fully comprehensive cover is usually required.

Meanwhile, if you opt to hire a car for a short period rather than use a lease option, you can cover the excess figure using car hire excess insurance.

Even though you would still need to pay the excess in the event of a claim, you could then use the policy to be reimbursed.

Remember that the type of vehicle you opt for will have a huge influence on potential insurance costs too, so hiring the latest make and model may not always be as cost-effective.

Date Created: 17/06/2020