I was Falsely Accused of Hire Car Damage!

My car hire was from 3 February to 16 February - at CT international Airport, I handed the car back and awaited the return of my deposit. I received a mail this morning alleging I had damaged the hire car! - I was incensed because I didn't damage the car. The charge to me was R10K!

On pick up I noticed a small tear in the front bumper - it was on the hand over document and the agent signed in agreement. I responded to the mail explaining that if europecar did their job properly and examined their copy of the hand over doc they would have seen the damage mentioned. I demanded an investigation - and also provided a photo of the bumper I took on collection.

Only after threatening legal action was the investigation undertaken and I was cleared.

I personally will not do business with this company again, they appear to think they are the judge / jury and executioner, there was NO discussion with me on this matter, they simply found me guilty and sent me the bill for the damage - no debate.

This leaves a VERY bad taste in my mouth - I expected better treatment.

When you collect a car I suggest you check it 110% before you drive off and get ANY damage signed off by Europecar release agent, keep a copy of the document for future use. Take extensive photos of ANY damage.

Good luck!