********** and misrepresented by Europcar King Shaka Airport branch

1. On 22 December 2017 I took delivery of a rental vehicle, RANGER 2.2 TDCI 4X4 XL with registration number FS83JWGP from the King Shaka branch of Europcar; 2. On acceptance of the vehicle my husband and the Europcar attendant inspected the vehicle for any existing damages as is normal procedure. 3. All recognised damages were recorded, however it must be pointed out that the vehicle was covered in dew as it was after 8:30 pm. 4. Neither my husband nor the Europcar attendant picked up a slight crack on the front bumper. On return of the vehicle on 24 December 2017 the Europcar attendant pointed out the crack to us. 5. We advised him that the vehicle was neither in an accident nor damaged otherwise whilst in our possession and that the crack was overlooked during inspection. He advised us to fill out a form explaining the situation and never told us that the form is an acceptance of liability form. 6. I had assumed that the matter was resolved and was awaiting the refund of my deposit less re-fuelling and cost of rental promptly. 7. Europcar did not communicate with me since 24 December 2017 and failed to provide me with an update on the return of my deposit until I phone them on 11 January 2018 to enquire. 8. I was told that the vehicle is being assessed for a claim for damages.

Despite my requests for evidence that the vehicle was damaged whilst in my care, the company is unable to provide such and repeatedly are sending me emails advising of their excellent service and high standards . They cannot show me CCTV footage which I find extremely unacceptable. If they have such high standards why can they not show me the footage to prove it. I have used Europcar various times before and never thought that as a regular customer I would be treated so badly and be accused of causing damage to a vehicle which was clearly not my doing. In an attempt to get some mediation in the matter I even referred the matter to the Southern African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association to no avail.

I have been dealing with Mr Dillon Annamalai at the branch who instead of providing proof of their supposed excellence denies any liability and constantly refers to the liability clauses in the agreement.

I am at my wits end and am being charged R4000 for damages that I cannot held liable for. Europcar is ripping innocent people off!!!