Here are some safety tips when travelling abroad with a rental car:
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Review maps and other visitor information before leaving the rental car area or other location. Reading a map while driving is dangerous and can indicate you are unfamiliar with the area.
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Familiarize yourself with the vehicle's safety equipment, including hazard lights, windshield wipers, the spare tire, seat belts and door locks.
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Always be wary of pulling over, especially if it is dark or if you are unfamiliar with the territory. Do not stop if a passing motorist tells you that something is wrong with your vehicle or if someone bumps you from behind. Pull into the nearest service station or well lit public area.
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Never exit your cheap rental car until you are sure that the situation is safe.
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Keep all your luggage locked in the trunk.
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Always use seat belts. It is the law and may save your life in the event of an accident.
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Do not draw attention to the fact that you are a visitor.
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Stay on the main roads and stick to your planned route.
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If your car malfunctions on a major thoroughfare, lock the doors, turn on the hazard lights and wait for the police to arrive.
