A Royal Navy sailor has been left furious after car rental giant Hertz slapped him with a staggering £1,200 bill for a minor scratch on a rental vehicle. The sailor, who wishes to remain anonymous, claims the charge is wildly disproportionate to the actual damage.
The Incident
The sailor rented a car from Hertz while on leave, only to discover later that the company had charged his credit card for what he describes as a "tiny scratch" on the bumper. He insists the mark was barely visible and argues that the £1,200 fee is excessive.
Consumer Outrage
The case has sparked fresh concerns over rental car companies imposing unreasonable damage fees. Many consumers have taken to social media to share similar experiences, accusing Hertz and other firms of exploiting customers with inflated repair costs.
Hertz's Response
Hertz has defended its actions, stating that all damage charges are assessed based on repair estimates. However, critics argue that the lack of transparency in these assessments leaves customers vulnerable to unfair charges.
What Can You Do?
If you're renting a car, experts recommend:
- Taking detailed photos of the vehicle before and after rental
- Reviewing the rental agreement carefully for damage clauses
- Considering additional insurance if you're concerned about potential charges
The sailor is now exploring his options to challenge the charge, potentially through small claims court.
