Car rental cancellation because of lack of winter tires

1. Do car rental companies use winter tires?
2. What happens if you don't have winter tires in BC?
3. What happens if you get a flat tire in a rental car?
4. Do car rental companies check tires?
5. Does Avis allow snow chains?
6. How much is a set of snow tires?
7. Can I use all season tires in winter in BC?
8. Is it illegal to not have winter tires in BC?
9. Is it mandatory to have winter tires in BC?
10. Who is responsible if rental car breaks down?
11. Why do rental cars not have spare tires?
12. Should you accept rental car insurance?

Do car rental companies use winter tires?

Most car rental companies offer ski racks at locations near major ski resorts around the country for prices typically between $10 and $15 per day. Adding winter tires, or Mud & Snow (M&S) tires, is more difficult. Most rental car companies do not offer these tires, and they definitely don't offer snow chains.

What happens if you don't have winter tires in BC?

Passenger vehicles not equipped with winter tires are subject to a $121 fine, while commercial vehicles not carrying chains can get slapped with a fine of $196. In addition, commercial vehicles bypassing an active chain up area are subject to a fine of $598.

What happens if you get a flat tire in a rental car?

Your first call should be to the rental car company's dedicated roadside assistance line or customer service number. ... In this case, the rental car company is responsible for covering the labor cost for replacing the flat or damaged tire or getting the car towed to the nearest service facility.

Do car rental companies check tires?

The most they'll do is check the tire pressure... although that's also rare. I can't count the number of times I've driven Hertz rental cars with obvious low pressure tires, with some so low that the tire pressure warning system showed just 20psi for 3 of the 4 tires.

Does Avis allow snow chains?

Winter-proof your car rental

Whether you're driving to the slopes or anticipating some wintry weather on the roads, Avis rental stations have a ready supply of snow tyres, snow chains and ski/snowboard racks to help make your journey that much easier and safer.

How much is a set of snow tires?

Expect to spend from $150 to almost $190 per tire, installed, for top-quality brands. While the tread life of winter tires has improved dramatically, it's not smart to wear out their rubber in hot months.

Can I use all season tires in winter in BC?

All season tires have the M + S symbol, meaning mud and snow, and in B.C. they are considered the minimum acceptable winter tire. However, you could be turned away on some roads where only tires bearing the three peak snow flake symbol and the M + S are allowed.

Is it illegal to not have winter tires in BC?

Although winter tires are not mandatory in B.C., keep in mind that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure can designate them to be required on certain roads and highways. ... If you're driving on these roads without winter tires, police can ticket you and make you turn back.

Is it mandatory to have winter tires in BC?

While winter tires are not mandatory province-wide, they are required on a majority of B.C. highways. Drivers without the proper winter tires in good condition driving on designated B.C. highways can receive a fine of $109.

Who is responsible if rental car breaks down?

Rental agreements state that damage caused by the renter is the responsibility of the renter. If you have damage and collision coverage from the rental company or an independent insurance company like Sure, you'll be covered. Otherwise, you'll have to file a claim with your insurance or pay out of pocket.

Why do rental cars not have spare tires?

Carmakers are skipping the spare because of regulatory pressure to squeeze more miles out of every gallon of fuel: Ditching the 40 or 50 pounds that a tire and jack usually add to a car's weight helps to increase fuel economy slightly.

Should you accept rental car insurance?

No, you do not need insurance to rent a car because rental companies have their own insurance that covers their rental cars. ... Many major credit cards also offer coverage for rental cars if you pay with your card and decline the collision damage waiver offered by the rental company.