Customer Disputes Enterprise Rental Car Charges in Jacksonville
A young woman recently faced unexpected charges. Grace Johnson rented a vehicle from Enterprise Rent-A-Car. This happened during a visit to Jacksonville, Florida. She planned her trip from Georgia to Florida. However, an emergency required her to return the car early.
Unexpected Charges After Early Return
Ms. Johnson returned her rental vehicle two days ahead of schedule. She expected a reduced charge. Enterprise Rent-A-Car, however, charged her for the full week. Her initial bill was $428.18. After the early return, the charges increased. The final amount was $504.60.
Enterprise policies can be complex. Some rental agreements charge more for early returns. This is because the initial rate might be based on a longer rental period. Shortening the rental can change the daily rate significantly.
Seeking Resolution with Enterprise
Grace Johnson immediately contacted Enterprise. She hoped to resolve the issue. Her attempts to reach a resolution were unsuccessful. She sought a refund for the unused days. The company initially denied her request. They cited their policy on early returns.
Many consumers find rental car policies confusing. It is crucial to read the rental agreement carefully. Understanding the terms helps prevent surprises. Especially note clauses about early returns or extensions.
Action News Jax Intervenes
Frustrated, Ms. Johnson reached out for help. She contacted Action News Jax. The news station investigated her complaint. They reached out to Enterprise Rent-A-Car directly. Meanwhile, the dispute gained public attention. Consumer advocacy often helps in such situations.
Partial Refund Issued
Following the news inquiry, Enterprise responded. The company reviewed Ms. Johnson’s case. They acknowledged a potential misunderstanding. Enterprise then issued a partial refund. Ms. Johnson received $105 back. This covered the additional charges she questioned. However, she still paid for the full week’s rental.
Tips for Renting a Car
Consumers can take steps to avoid similar issues. Always verify the return date and time. Get a clear understanding of the full rental period. Ask about fees for early returns. In addition, always keep copies of your rental agreement. Document all communications with the rental company. Take photos of the car at pickup and drop-off. This protects against damage claims. Knowing your rights as a consumer is key.
