The Ins and Outs of Parking Tickets When Renting a Car: What Happens to You?
When renting a car, it's not uncommon to receive a parking ticket. This blog post will delve into how the process typically unfolds, including who pays the ticket and how it gets charged back to the renter.
Ticket Issuance
The most important first step is the issuance of the parking ticket. In many cases, the ticket is issued to the rental vehicle itself. Typically, the local authority issues the ticket, which includes details such as the ticket number and the vehicle's license plate.
Notification to the Rental Company
Following the issuance of the ticket, the local authority may notify the rental company. This notification includes essential details like the ticket number, the license plate, and sometimes a description of the violation. Once the rental company is aware, they will take steps to resolve the issue.
Charge to the Renter
Rental companies usually cover the cost of the parking ticket to resolve the matter. However, they will typically charge the renter for the ticket amount plus any associated administrative fees.
The amount of the additional fee can vary from one rental company to another. Some may charge a flat rate, while others might apply a percentage of the ticket cost. It's crucial to understand these terms before renting a car, as they can add significantly to the overall bill.
Billing
The rental company will bill you for the total amount, which includes both the fine and any additional fees. They may bill you through the credit card you used to rent the vehicle or send you a separate invoice.
Disputing the Ticket
If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you may need to handle the dispute directly with the local authority. Although the rental company may not contest the ticket on your behalf, it's usually best to resolve the issue outside of the rental company's channels.
Personal Experience with Hertz
I encountered this situation with Hertz. It was a speeding ticket, and they charged me a small administrative fee. However, it was up to me to decide how to handle the ticket. I opted for an online driving course to avoid points on my record, but I had to pay for the course as well as any ticket fees. It was certainly an expensive lesson learned during a vacation.
The way I was caught was particularly sneaky. I was in a decoy police car, which took an automatic picture of any vehicle exceeding the speed limit. Therefore, always drive carefully and within the speed limits to avoid such issues.
Summary
When renting a car, it's important to know what happens to parking tickets. Generally, the rental company will pay the ticket but then charge the renter for it and any additional fees. Resolving the issue requires clear communication and understanding of the rental agreement.
For those who want to avoid these extra costs, driving safely and adhering to local laws is key. If you ever find yourself in this situation, it's best to handle the ticket directly with the local authority to avoid unnecessary charges.