There’s a lot to see and do in South Australia during March. The city offers a terrific festival atmosphere and a wide variety of entertainment, and it’s a great time to experience the hospitality and beauty of the regions as the autumn season begins. Consumer and Business Services offers these helpful tips so you can enjoy getting out and about without any transport hassles.

Sharing a ride or vehicle

There are plenty of transport options these days if you don’t have a car or you prefer to leave your car at home sometimes. Ride share services, such as Uber, can pick you up and take you to your destination. You book a ride online or via an app, but for first-time users it’s a good idea to do some research to understand the cost and booking process.

You’ll be able to see online how other passengers have rated your allocated driver, and the driver can see if you’ve been given a passenger rating and any comments too. Good ratings are usually given to passengers who are polite, don’t keep the driver waiting and don’t leave mess in the car. And at the end of your trip you’ll be able to rate your driver.

Car sharing is another option if you only need a car occasionally or have different car needs from time to time. Car sharing is like hiring a car, but you can book a car for shorter periods of time – e.g. an hour or two - as well as over several days. There is greater flexibility with where and when you can pick up and return the car. Do some research first to find out about the costs involved, car collection locations near you and the booking process.

Hiring a vehicle or caravan

If you’ll be travelling out of the city you may be looking to hire a vehicle or mobile accommodation such as a caravan or motor home. As always you should check the terms and conditions before agreeing to hire. Consider things such as the cost, drop off and pick up locations and any restrictions with the hire arrangement.

When collecting the vehicle or caravan, check that the hire company has recorded any scratches or dents that you see so you won’t be held liable when it’s returned. If scratches or dents occur when you have the vehicle, you will be liable for this.

The hire company must provide a product that is of acceptable quality. If it doesn’t perform properly then you may be entitled to a remedy, such as a refund or replacement item.

Using your own vehicle

If you’ll be taking your vehicle out a lot this month, or going for a long road trip, remember to keep up to date with your vehicle maintenance and servicing. You’ll want to arrive safely at your destination without car troubles along the way.

It’s also a good idea to use a fuel price app or website to see which petrol station has the cheapest fuel near you or along your journey route. It’s quick, easy and free to check. And the less you spend on fuel, the more you’ll have to spend on your meals and entertainment. See the fuel price apps and websites that are participating in SA’s fuel price reporting trial.

Resolving an issue

If there are any problems, raise the issue with the business or ride/car share provider first. You may need to put your concerns in writing – e.g. via email or their booking platform.

If you need further advice or assistance please contact Consumer and Business Services via https://www.cbs.sa.gov.au/contact or phone on 131 882.

Read more about your rights with ride sharing and checking fuel prices.