Renting a car in the UK?
Posted by Jacqui | Posted in Car Rental | Posted on 04-02-2010-05-2008
0
Are you thinking of coming to the UK and renting a car? Then you need to be aware that compared to most other major European countries, UK roads are not as good! Does this mean you should not rent a car? No, it just means you need to be a little more careful when dring it.
The Road Safety Foundation has said that only about 50% of UK roads reach the top marks of four stars, the overall best roads are the motorways of which 50% receive four stars, the A roads however fall short of this number, with dual carriageways and minor roads getting less stars than that!
So what should you do? After all, renting a car is still the best way of getting around the UK and seeing the country, it’s also probably the most economic if there are two or more in your party. It is also possibly the most convenient, especially if you want to see more out of the way places in the UK.
The problem for you the driver on UK roads are potholes and the aftermath of the huge number of repairs and/or remains of utility companies digging up roads to repair or install underground pipes etc. So the trick is to be alert, before you set off, make sure you are fully familiar with all controls in your rental car. It’s surprising how distracting it can be to find the windscreen wiper is in a different place than you are used to on your own car.
Keep to the speed limits, you’re more likely to spot a pothole or repair bump or dip if you’re not imitating Jenson Button or Jeremy Clarkson! Besides, if you drive a little slower, you’ll be ale to appreciate the countryside more and have more time to spot a quaint little place to stop and take tea!