Never rent a car seat!
Monday's post on Z Recommends talks about car seat rentals with Advantage Rent-a-car, and the unclean, unsafe seats they have been found to offer their customers. Reading the post made me so mad, because it brought up memories of a horrible experience we had with a car seat rental.
After our experience and reading the comments from other readers of the post, I strongly urge you to always bring your child's car seat when you travel. Don't rely on rental companies to keep your kids safe!
Here's our story:
We had a very bad experience with renting a car seat at Hertz, and I hope we never have to rent a car seat again. We now have a Radian folding car seat that we bring with us when we travel.
We flew into Hamilton, Ontario and drove into Toronto last summer. We rented a car from Hertz because of a recommendation by CAA and the promise of having an infant seat provided at no charge and having it installed by "special trained personnel". In addition to the installation, CAA touts the "safety, security and convenience", and says that "Hertz field personnel have been extensively trained on the proper installation, cleaning and inspection of the car seats and will install the seats in the vehicle".
HA!!!! Our experience contradicted all of that!
We reserved our infant seat weeks ahead of time, and when we picked up the rental, we were given a car seat to install ourselves. The employee wouldn't install it for us, and she didn't have an instruction manual. My husband mentioned to the clerk that their website said that the seat would be installed by trained personnel. She said that she had taken the course for installation but said she wanted nothing to do with it. She said that she didn't want to end up in court if we got in an accident!
She (and Hertz corporate, when we later contacted them) said that they would be changing the website information shortly, but they still haven't changed their policies.
And even worse than all of that, the seat was FILTHY. I've never seen a car seat so dirty. There was rust all over the bottom of the seat and some in the car base as well. Who knows how damaged it was! We didn't feel safe using the seat for our baby, so we asked for a replacement, and were told that there were no other car seats. The employee also refused to call another location to reserve a seat for us to pick up.
Thankfully, when we drove to the Toronto airport location the next day, they gave us a brand new car seat with an instruction manual (which we again had to install ourselves), but that didn't make up for the inexcusable service and condition of the original car seat, which we had to use, driving for an hour on Canada's busiest highway!
My advice: BRING YOUR OWN CAR SEAT WHEN YOU TRAVEL.
Update:
I've been quoted on BlogHer! Read more car seat horror stories on Mir Kamin's post: Think twice before renting a car seat for your child.
Update:
I also posed the question: What about taxis?
And check out 2 posts from the woman who started the blogs buzzing about this topic:
Danger for Rent: Car Rental Agency Puts Infant At Risk. She took photos of the damaged seat she received. I wish we had thought to take photos of the seat Hertz gave us!
and
Safety Tips for Renting a Car Seat
I've been reading through all the horror stories on this issue, and I'm thinking that the rental companies' fear of "liability" doesn't go far enough. I can understand the clerks not being allowed to help the customer install, especially if they haven't been trained: I'm a certified carseat inspector, and don't help anyone in my official capacity without them signing a waiver. However, even if the employees don't help with installation, what about the company's responsibility to provide (1) the correct size as requested by the parent and (2) a seat that they're sure is undamaged. Invisible damage caused by a 'minor' accident or even a tumble down the stairs can render a seat much less safe then it was; and of course the wrong size is very bad indeed. Must not these cars have working brakes and headlights - not to mention seatbelts? Is it the renter's responsibility to give the car a full mechanical inspection before renting? If the company is not prepared to provide customers with everything they need for safe transport, it shouldn't be in the business.
It seems that the only thing for consumers to do now is to provide their own carseats for rental cars, no matter what the companies say. I love the idea of the fold-up Radian, especially the 65-pounds-in-5-point-harness feature. Did you purchase it in Canada, and does it have a Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) sticker or notice? Unfortunately, the manual isn't available on the website; if you know where to get one, it would be a good thing to add to our inspection reference material.
Hi Heather!
I agree, there are so many liability issues that you'd think rental companies would be more careful about what they're providing to their customers!
I did a lot of research before buying the Radian, and went on some online forums about car seat safety to get opinions, and this seemed like a really good option for us. We got the Radian 65 (the 80 isn't available in Canada), and I made sure it had a CMVSS sticker specifying 65lbs before I bought it.
Canadian Tire used to carry the Radian but they don't anymore, and although the ones they had are the same design at the 65, the had the old stickers, for when it was only certified for 40-something lbs. I bought it online from Tummies to Tots, but I know several online Canadian stores carry the Radian. It was great, we received it in less than a week, and shipping over $100 is free, so I didn't have that expense to worry about!
http://www.tummiestotots.com/
Oh, the manual for the Radian 65 is online here. It's from the U.S. site, but the manual is the same, except for not having French. If you contacted the company, they'd probably give you a PDF of the Canadian version though.
http://www.skjp.com/products/skjp_radian_65.php
We bring our Radian with us when we travel, but I'm still always a bit nervous about how it is handled by airline baggage carriers!
Have you ever thought or renting a carseat from a baby equipment rental agency. Wee Travel has offices in Vancouver, Toronto and Victoria. They deliver to the airport (or elsewhere) and their seats are SPOTLESS. I travel on my own with my child, and I could never manage to bring my own seat on top of everything else i have to bring. I have used Wee Travel in both Toronto and Vancouver and would highly recommend them. I travel frequently to visit family and thanks to Wee Travel, I leave all the gear at home and just rent it. I know there are rental companies in all the major Canadian cities so it's worth checking out before you decide to schelp all your own stuff with you!
Another company that I have used and would highly recommend is BAMBINO BABY EQUIPMENT RENTALS. They are based in Vancouver and deliver to the Vancouver airport for FREE!! All their equipment is practically new and in great condition!
momof2 > Nice to hear of it - hopefully there are some similar services in other cities too! The free delivery is a great perk!
Thanks for posting this link on my blog. What a scary experience!
I think it's better to drag your own car seat around then rent one that you don't know where it's been.
It's funny you mentioned the Radian, I was just looking into it the other day. I wish I could get 3 of them, so my daughter and 2 nephews could all fit in the back seat of one car! We are always wanting to go places, but the parking is so expensive. If only we could fit in one car!
Of course, the $750 for car seats would far be worse than the $11 dollars per car rate to park. LOL!
I'm really liking Elizabeth Mitchell lately. She's got a few albums of her own, but I really love the one she made with Lisa Loeb, Catch the Moon. We listen to her a lot in the car. And Jack Johnson, too!
sex cams
Escorts London
Lennon is reported to be on Leicester's free camsmelbourne strippers shortlist as they seek a replacement following Sven Goran Eriksson's departure earlier this month.
free camsSydney Escorts
.
cam to camsydney escort
Vegas Escortssexy shop
Escorts SydneyLondon Asian escorts1/2
Jav Japan Mediafire
western porn full movie
Porn Full Mediafire
This info is really worthy to guide anyone why not to rent a car seat. I have never done so and also restrict my friends from doing so.
auto transport quotes , car shipping quotes , free auto transport quotes
Nice post thanks for sharing.
A reliable blog always comes-up with new and exciting information and while reading I have feel that this blog is really have all those quality that characterize a blog to be a best one.
Are you interested to buy
Used Forklifts Toronto
AWesome article! Ultimately, as long as your baby is in a properly-installed infant Carseat and meets the height and weight requirements for that seat, he is very well protected in the event of an accident.
http://rentcar-dibali.blogspot.com
recomended rent car in bali.
Hi admin,
I read your blog, its really awesome,
I am seeing that you are selling home. I have also a site related to you.
It is a common issue on real estate if a person is going to purchase or rent a property. Of course, there are so many benefits that a homeowner can get compared to the renters.
houses to rent newark
Your regards
Alfaj Ripon
Good informative post and also appreciating initiative. It's a fantastic and keep up the good work.
Choose Heathrow airport taxis in London
It's appreciated for creating general awareness for not to go for rental car seat. I have noted and share to my friends.
London Heathrow airport minicabs for great service
*Can I just say what a relief to find someone who actually knows what theyre talking about on the internet. You definitely know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people need to read this and understand this side of the story. I cant believe youre not more popular because you definitely have the gift.
Convertible Car Seat 2017
Easy to Baby Products on rent through us. Please select and book online, the item to rent or write to us
Productive content! I am quite impressive from what you have shared in your blog. Thank you for sharing this blog with us.
Toronto limo
Nice Blog.Thanks for sharing such a nice information. If you want to visit multiple places in india. Book ganraj travels by affordble rates and fares.For more information visit our website. Hurry up! Pune To Silvassa Taxi Service
Looking To Sell Your Car For Cash or removal Service Is Free and We Remove Truck Van 4wds SUVs. Scrap Or Old Running Or Non Runners Call Us. 0429 794 488
junk cars redcliffe
Most of the blogs pretend themselves as most usable and updated blogs with new information but sometime truth might different. I want to share some facts related to this subject which will help people to enhance their skills. Airport transfer basel
When you are not in mood to drive your own car then renting a car is best option for long journey. This blogspot is simply amazing and thanks for sharing.
Cab Booking in Dehradun | Cab Hire in Dehradun
This blog is really helpful regarding all educational knowledge I earned. It covered a great area of subject which can assist a lot of needy people. Everything mentioned here is clear and very useful.
ซื้อขาย แลกเปลี่ยน รถ มือ สอง
Luxury Cars Rental Dubai believes that requirement of cars can come anytime and hence, we are always available for 24 hours a day. What you need to do is get in touch with us and book for the car. Either you put the on-line requirement of just call us to arrange a fleet for you.
Luxury Cars Rental Dubai
Luxury Car Rental Dubai
Visit here: http://www.luxurycarsrentaldubai.co/
info@luxurycarsrentaldubai.co
+971 56 845 2520
Best online Book your Orlando, Florida park tickets with allparktickets! We offer affordable prices, free delivery and £25 deposits on all our Florida all park tickets. Call now
All Park Tickets
All Park Tickets in USA
Cheapest Theme Parks Tickets USA
all park tickets
park tickets
usa park tickets
All Park Tickets
Visit here: https://www.allparktickets.com/
Address
ALL PARK TICKETS
1415 McCoy Rd,
Suite A,
Orlando, Florida 32809,
USA.
I learn new information from your article,you are doing a great job.Keep it up Used Toyota Vitz Cars Near Me
thanks for writing this post Few of my relatives even suggest me to try the services of free car removal Ipswich , cash for cars gold coast,
cash for cars sunshine coast, cash for cars Brisbane, which are areas nearby them as they also provide free
towing services at your doorstep.
Thanks for this informative article, I would recommend you for
Car service near me
Car mechanical repairs
Brake pad replacement Brisbane
Car battery replacement Brisbane
Car clutch and transmission service
Car a/c cooling system service
Tyres shop near me
Roadworthy certificate near me
I have been looking for something like this one, thanks for sharing with us
cash for car ipswich
cash for car brisbane
cash for car dayboro
cash for car eumundi
cash for car tingalpa
We have been in this automotive business for many years now. We love old cars so call us if you have any. we do not mind if it is old, used, we will still give you the best price!
cash for car brisbane
Junk Car Removals is the best Cash For Cars Brisbane Up To $12000 With Free Car Removal Brisbane, Get Top Cash For Junk Cars, Vans, Suv, Truck in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Logan, Caboolture, Sunshine Coast, Inner Brisbane, South Brisbane, North Brisbane, West Brisbane and East Brisbane
cash for cars brisbane
car removal gold coast
car removal ipswich
مجموعه دکورچوب یکی از واردکنندگان و فروشندگان برتر و بزرگ کاغذ دیواری، پارکت لمینت، قرنیز و دیگر ملزومات دکوراسیون داخلی است شما میتوانید برای مشاهده محصولات و خرید آنلاین به سایت دکورچوب مراجعه کنید
وبسایت دکورچوب
Purposely this blog have this drag gigantic cost, confounding impacts, Much thankfulness to for offering this blog. Much resuscitating for this post. Visit us at Car Removals Sydney.
Confusing post! I on a to a great degree basic level moved to look at the data that you have surrendered to us. Cash For Cars offers best price for your junk cars.
Excellent post!! Looking for an old car buyer in cash for cars Sydney, cash for car Sydney
? Let's come for the best deals - cash for cars Melbourne, cash for car Melbourne
cash for cars Perth, cash for car Perth
cash for cars Adelaide, cash for car Adelaide
There are many reasons to sell my car Sydney and cash for cars is the main reason. We offer you as high as $9,999 cash that is paid on the spot. With us, even your worthless vehicle has value. Visit us at Sell Truck Adelaide.
Really nice and interesting post. I was looking for this kind of information and enjoyed reading this one. Keep posting. Thanks for sharing. Sell your unwanted junk cars at Cash 4 Cars.
Wonderful, just what a blog it is! This blog has provided the helpful data to us continue the good work. Car Removals Adelaide offers best cash for your unwanted cars.
I definitely enjoying every little bit of it. It is a great website and nice share. I want to thank you. Good job! You guys do a great blog, and have some great contents. Keep up the good work.
Get top dollars for your junk cars at Auto Removals Adelaide.
At Cash For Car Sydney, we are Sydney’s leading top dollar car wreckers & removers who pay “Cash For Cars” in your pocket on the spot into your pocket just to come to haul away your unwanted car. Whether your once shiny new vehicle is now a clunker that sits in the yard, or it is time to upgrade to a newer model, we will provide you with an instant cash offer of up to $13,599.
Good informative post and also appreciating initiative. It's a fantastic and keep up the good work. Sell your unwanted scrap cars at Car For Cash Melbourne for top dollars.
Local car buyer, a platform where you can get top cash for all types of vehicles. We are buying cars for cash from Brisbane, Gold coast, Canberra, Perth, Melbourne etc. We ensure quick car selling with free removal at the comfort of your home.
cash for car herston"y
cash for car highgate-hill"y
cash for car kangaroo-point"y
At Cash For Car Sydney, we focus on buying used, old, damaged cars for cash that go up to $8,999. Sell Your car for cash Up To $8,999 with free removal any time convenient for you. One of many advantages that our company has is the fact that you can sell your car same day. Regardless of your damaged scrap car, we are ready to purchase it on the spot and also remove it from your premises.
Thanks for sharing this post. According to my experience Unique Cash For Cars is the best cash for cars toowoomba Up To $9,999 With Free Car Removal Brisbane, Get Top Cash For Junk Cars, Vans, Suv, Truck in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Logan, Caboolture, Sunshine Coast, Inner Brisbane, South Brisbane, North Brisbane, West Brisbane and East Brisbane