The following are examples of careless, inconsiderate, dangerous or negligent driving referred to in our car rental terms and conditions and other web pages. This list is provided for guidance only and is not exhaustive.
Distractions and Inattention
- Using a handheld device: texting, talking on a phone, or checking social media.
- Internal distractions: eating, drinking, smoking, adjusting the radio or navigation system, or engaging in other activities that distract from proper control of the vehicle.
- External distractions: for example, “rubbernecking” at accidents or scenes outside the vehicle.
- Momentary lapses: a brief, negligent or distracted moment resulting in a loss of focus.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medication that causes drowsiness.
- Driving whilst fatigued, drowsy, or unfit through a lack of sleep.
- Failing to maintain proper observation of road conditions, hazards, pedestrians or cyclists.
- Failing to check mirrors or blind spots.
Positioning and Manoeuvring
- Tailgating: driving too close to the vehicle in front.
- Improper overtaking: overtaking on the inside lane.
- Inappropriate lane usage: misusing lanes to gain an advantage, or staying in overtaking lanes unnecessarily.
- Failure to yield: turning or crossing into the path of another vehicle, or failing to give way at a junction.
- Improper turning: failing to indicate, or taking the wrong lane at a roundabout.
- Reversing without proper observation.
- Performing unsafe U-turns.
Speed and Control
- Inappropriate speed: driving too fast for the road, traffic or weather conditions, and/or exceeding the legal speed limit.
- Unnecessary slowness: driving at a speed that disrupts traffic flow.
- Sudden, unneeded braking: braking without a legitimate traffic reason.
- Loss of control: due to poor handling, speed, or inattention.
- Failing to maintain a safe stopping distance.
Traffic Signals and Road Signs
- Running red lights: driving through a red light, including by mistake.
- Failing to stop at a stop sign.
- Ignoring traffic lights or temporary traffic signals.
- Failing to comply with road markings.
- Driving in bus lanes or restricted areas unlawfully, and ignoring “No Entry” or one-way restrictions.
Lighting and Equipment
- Failing to dip headlights.
- Driving without lights when required.
Inconsiderate Behaviour
- Forcing right of way: flashing lights or using intimidation to make other drivers stop.
- Bumping the curb: showing a lack of care when manoeuvring.
- Racing or competitive driving.
- Obstructing other drivers.
Other Negligent Behaviour
- Failing to secure the vehicle while parked.
- Leaving the vehicle unlocked or with keys accessible.
- Misfuelling the vehicle.
- Driving through flood water or other hazardous conditions recklessly.
- Using the vehicle for any unlawful purpose.
- Failing to report an accident.
- Off-road driving.