Do All Rental Cars Have Backup Cameras?

Last Updated on May 15, 2023 by Laura

Photo credit: Shutterstock

How likely is it that your next rental car will be equipped with a backup camera? Extremely likely. That’s because rental companies update their fleets every two years or so. And since 2018, the U.S. and Canada have mandated that new automobiles be sold with backup cameras. So do all rental cars have backup cameras? It’s extremely rare nowadays to find a rental car that does not have this safety feature.

What is a Backup Camera?

A backup camera, also known as a rearview camera, is a video camera installed on the back of a vehicle to live-record the events going on behind the car, while showing the scene on a dashboard screen to the driver in real time. The camera illuminates the driver’s blind spot, helping prevent accidents while driving in reverse.

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Backup cameras have proven so helpful in preventing accidents that the United States and Canada have implemented laws requiring all new models of vehicles to include backup cameras as a safety feature. The backup camera mandate provides a greater level of safety and assurance to both drivers and pedestrians.

Why might your rental car not come with a backup camera? If you rent from a small, budget rental company, the fleet may not be as new as what the major rental companies maintain. The availability of a backup camera in your rental will depend on the car brand, model, and year. If you’re unsure when booking, reach out to the rental car company directly.

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Benefits of a Backup Camera on a Rental Car

1. It essentially eliminates your blind spot. They allow drivers to see clearly and provide a wider range of sight than the rearview mirror.
2. It assists in the tricky art of parallel parking. The backup camera helps significantly when wedging into tight parking spots with nary a ding on your—or someone else’s—car.
3. It offers a sightline for kids and pets. It’s estimated that over 200 people are killed each year—and over 14,000 are injured—due to backover accidents, the majority of whom are children. Backup cameras and sensors can help prevent these tragic incidents.
4. It reduces traffic stress. Backing up in traffic—from a driveway off a busy road, for example—can be anxiety-inducing. A backup camera helps ensure a safe distance from other cars and safely gauges the cars around yours.

When booking a rental car, a backup camera is an important safety feature.

Related:

• What to Do If You Have an Accident in a Rental Car
• What to Do If You Get a Parking Ticket in a Rental Car

The post Do All Rental Cars Have Backup Cameras? appeared first on AutoSlash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does hail damage fall under my control if I rent an automobile in the United States

All damage from natural disasters like tornadoes, hurricanes, floods and others will be covered by your insurance company. Contact your rental agency if you're unsure if this applies for your rental car.

Which location is the most accessible to rent an automobile?

These are the best places to rent cars: airports and rental agencies.

The most common way to find an airport location near you is by using online travel sites such as Expedia or Priceline.

If local rental companies have locations near where you live, they might be worth your consideration. These are usually cheaper and easier than booking on an airline website.

Public transportation is an option if your rental car is for less than 2 weeks. There are city-wide bus passes that allow unlimited riding within a given area.

A convertible may be available for rent if you're traveling with children. These vehicles offer more protection to their children than others.

How can I document damage done to my car before it is rented?

Take all necessary documentation with you, including photos. Ask the agent for assistance if you don't have any idea of the extent of the damage. An inspection might cost you extra if there are any damages.

What is the average daily price of a European rental car?

It is unknown, but we believe it to be between $100 and $200 per day.

We recommend that you rent at least two days because there are many attractions and activities.

If you intend to stay longer, you might be interested in a vehicle that costs around $2000-$3000.

This way you could travel around Europe for free.

You should also check if your credit card company offers any discounts on rentals.

What documents are required to drive in Europe with a license?

All the necessary documentation must be available for each country that you visit. This includes passports, visa requirements as well as customs clearance and tax information.

Also, you will need to have copies of your passport, driving licence, and insurance policy. The insurance policy will need to cover you while driving in Europe.

In some countries, you may also need to show proof of ownership of the car. This could be a bill of sale or registration papers.

Drivers in some countries must have a valid driver’s license from their country of origin.

With a US driving license, can you rent a car anywhere in Europe?

It depends on what country you are visiting. For instance, if you go to France, you may be able to rent cars there. However, you cannot rent cars to Italy if the country doesn't accept US driver licenses.

Can I rent a vehicle in Germany and have it returned to Switzerland after returning it?

This question is dependent on several factors such as the type of vehicle that you rent, how long you plan on driving it, and whether there are any special requirements, like child seats or other safety features, for your rental car.

You don't have to rent a car if you drive from Munich to Zurich. Renting a car might be a good option if your goal is to drive from Munich, Barcelona and back during your holiday.

Statistics

• You can rent an automatic but these cars can cost as much as 50% more than a manual vehicle. (earthtrekkers.com)
• Save up to 30% on your rental car in Europe when you book with us today. (autoeurope.com)
• If you're a member of AAA, you might also be able to snag discounts of 10 percent at Thrifty, and 8 percent at Dollar. (afar.com)
• For canceled trips two days or shorter, a guest is charged 50% of one day's trip cost. (insider.com)
• American Airlines, for example, offers AAdvantage members 35% off Budget and Avis — but you need to rent from an airport. (nerdwallet.com)

External Links

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• Book Online Now & Save: Avis Car Hire
  

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kayak.com

• Search Flights, Hotels & Rental Cars
  

jdpower.com

• 2021 North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study
  
• 2019 North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study | J.D. Power
  

How To

How do I make sure that pre-existing damage isn't charged to my rental car?

If you take a rental car for a few days, what happens when the vehicle is returned to the rental agency? Is it possible to be charged for damage to your rental vehicle if there is a scratch? This is a common problem, especially for people who rent vehicles from different companies. Even if customers do not cause damage to the rented car, some agencies charge customers for it. Avoid these charges by asking whether you will be charged for scratches or dents on the vehicle. These are the steps you can take to ensure that no charges will be made for damage done before renting a car.

1. Ask for a scanned copy of the agreement.
2. Check the description of the car thoroughly;
3. Take care to read all the fine print.
4. Get a complimentary cleaning service
5. Careful about the car's condition.
6. Make sure you don't leave any items behind in your car
7. Cash is a must when you rent a vehicle.
8. Keep all payments in receipt.
9. It is your responsibility to ensure that no one touches the car without you permission.
10. Never accept a gift from the business
11. Hire only a well-respected rental agency
12. Make sure to take the contract with.
13. The car must be returned in good condition.
14. Send your contact information to the agent
15. Avoid using the same company as often as possible;
16. Make sure to note all details about the car: such as mileage, model and engine size. ;
17. Take photos to show the extent of the damage.
18. Do it yourself.
19. A third party should inspect your car.
20. Never agree to pay additional fees;

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