Car-sharing services like ShareNow, Miles, Getaround and Cambio operate across European cities under membership contracts that combine a framework agreement with per-trip rental terms. Many new members breeze through sign-up without realising they're accepting broad damage liability, annual fees, and automatic credit checks. Under the EU Consumer Rights Directive (2011/83/EU), distance sign-ups carry a 14-day cooling-off period — but exceptions apply once you take a vehicle. Knowing your rights before joining is key.
What is a Membership Terms?
A car-sharing membership contract is a framework distance contract governing access to a fleet of vehicles for pay-per-use rentals. It combines membership terms (fees, eligibility, termination) with per-trip rental terms (insurance excess, fuel, damage). EU Directive 2011/83/EU and national transposition laws apply.
Red flags to watch for
Standard excess on many car-sharing platforms is €500–€1,500 per incident. Members should be offered excess reduction for a reasonable fee.
The Consumer Rights Directive and related unfair terms rules require pre-renewal notice for long-term consumer contracts.
Pre-authorised card charges based on unilateral operator assessments may violate the Payment Services Directive (PSD2) dispute rights.
You should only be liable for damage caused during your actual booking, corroborated by the operator's vehicle inspection system.
Article 6 of the Consumer Rights Directive requires pre-contract information about total price, duration, and cancellation rights in plain language.
Article 6 GDPR requires a lawful basis and transparent disclosure. Blanket data-sharing clauses may not meet this standard.
Your legal rights
Directive 2011/83/EU (Consumer Rights Directive) gives consumers a 14-day cooling-off period for distance contracts and mandates clear pre-contract information. Directive 93/13/EEC (Unfair Terms Directive) makes non-binding any unfair term in a consumer contract. GDPR (Regulation (EU) 2016/679) governs personal data. The Payment Services Directive (PSD2) provides chargeback and unauthorised transaction protections. National consumer authorities enforce locally.
Questions to ask before you sign
- 1What is my 14-day cancellation right, and how do I exercise it?
- 2What is the damage excess per incident, and can I reduce it?
- 3How are damage disputes investigated and charged to my card?
- 4Does the membership auto-renew, and how do I cancel?
- 5What personal data do you share with insurers or third parties?
- 6What happens if the car is damaged before I take it?
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contract law varies by jurisdiction and individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified legal professional before making decisions based on this information.