{"id":20303,"date":"2017-08-15T10:00:42","date_gmt":"2017-08-15T09:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zestcarrental.com\/blog\/?p=20303"},"modified":"2026-03-27T14:03:28","modified_gmt":"2026-03-27T14:03:28","slug":"traffic-violation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zestcarrental.com\/blog\/traffic-violation\/","title":{"rendered":"Hiring a Car: What Happens if I Receive a Traffic Violation?"},"content":{"rendered":"

*Updated for 2026*<\/em><\/p>\n

It\u2019s not uncommon for people to receive a traffic violation while they\u2019re on holiday; most of the time, these are unintentional. Driving in a different country, among laws and regulations you\u2019re not used to, with warning and advisory signs written in a language you might not understand, is likely to cause some confusion. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, if you\u2019re caught, you may find yourself with a traffic violation notice.<\/p>\n

Common violations that get brought to our attention include breaking the speed limit, parking in a restricted area, or driving in a restricted area.<\/p>\n

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How will I know I\u2019ve received a violation?<\/h2>\n

The local authorities will contact the owners of the vehicle you\u2019re driving; the rental company. They will then be obligated to pass your contact details on so the authorities can send the notice of the violation and corresponding fine to you.<\/p>\n

Does the supplier pay the fine?<\/h2>\n

No, the car rental supplier will not pay the fine on your behalf. The local authorities will send the fine to you so you will have to pay it within the terms issued to you.<\/p>\n

Are there any other fees involved?<\/h2>\n

It\u2019s standard practice for car rental companies to charge you an administration fee for their involvement and liaison with the local authorities to ensure they have your details. This is often debited from the credit card used to authorise the security deposit.<\/p>\n

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What happens if I want to contest the fine?<\/h2>\n

You will have to liaise with the local authority that issued the fine. Their contact details will be included on the violation sent to you by them. Unfortunately, Zest cannot get involved with this process- if you are unaware of what the fine has been issued for, we are able to contact the supplier on your behalf for further information, if available.<\/p>\n

Hiring a car doesn\u2019t have to be stressful<\/h2>\n

Knowing local speed limits and road signs can make your trip smoother and safer. Brush up before you go, and if you ever need support, we\u2019re just a phone call away!<\/p>\n

Written by Jessica Juby.<\/em><\/p>\n

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