Hack 93. Rental-Car Tips and Other Auto Hacks

A video camera can help you prove that you didn't put those dents in a rental car. And if you do get in an accident, it can document what really happened.

As you've probably figured out, many video camera hacks are also appropriate for camera phones. What makes your camera phone unique is that you probably have it with you in some odd situations, such as when you're renting a car or find yourself involved in a fender bender.

8.5.1. Rental-Car Checkout

At most rental-car shops, an agency rep walks around the automobile with you before sending you off into the world. This is a great time to pull out your camera phone and photograph or video any scratches or dents he points out. Be sure to get his hand in the picture to make an identifying element that is unique to that car.

Then, take a few more shots: one from the front, looking down one side of the car, and another from the back, looking up the other side. Be sure to get the license plate in at least one of these pictures. Also, get one full shot of the agency rep standing next to the automobile. Work quickly, so that you don't interfere with the regular flow of business.

When you return the car to the lot, take your basic shots again to prove that you returned it in good shape. Be sure to get a least one shot that shows where you are, and if there's an agent accepting the return, get him too. This documents that you returned the car in good shape.

8.5.2. Fender-Bender Documentation

Nobody likes being involved in a fender bender, but they happen all the time. After you've interacted with the other parties and have exchanged insurance information, pull out your camera phone and snap a few shots like the one in Figure 8-6.

Figure 8-6. Quick documentation of a fender bender

First, record the overall scene, including the placement of vehicles, damage incurred, debris in the roadway, skid marks, and anything else that looks important. Also try to shoot the point of impact, especially if one of the cars crossed a centerline or barrier.

You can even be a good citizen and take some pictures as a witness to an accident you were not involved in. Then, contact the police department and let them know what you have.

8.5.3. Timestamp

In any of these scenarios, send at least one shot via email to yourself to create a reliable timestamp of the event. With rental cars, you can prove that on this particular day this car was in good shape. As for the fender bender, by sending an email minutes after the event, you can help establish when the accident actually happened.

Nobody wants to have rental-car hassles or incur damage to their personal auto, but if trouble arises, your camera phone can help establish the facts and help resolve the situations quickly and accurately.

Derrick Story