Visitors to Washington's Emerald City were charged more than they bargained for by vehicle rental company, Seattle Car Rentals, according to the Better Business Bureau.
Seattle Car Rentals caught the attention of the BBB after receiving complaints from 58 people this year alone.
Customers allege that Seattle Rental Cars alters contract agreements and overcharges unsuspecting travelers. Reports also indicate customers are sometimes rushed through the contract signing process and sent on their way without a copy of the rental agreement, according to the BBB. The agency also claims that upon returning the vehicle, some renters have found unauthorized contract alterations and charges far exceeding the agreed upon price.
With the holiday season and prime travel time upon us, The BBB recommends a few precautions before buckling into a rental car.
Get a written contract to ensure you're protected. Before you leave the lot, visually inspect the car for dings, dents and scratches. Get all verbal agreements for base rental cost, daily fees, insurance, the vehicle inspection summary or other rental particulars on paper.
Use a credit card when renting your car. If fraudulent charges occur you can dispute these with the card issuer. Cash, check and even debit purchases make it difficult to stop the transfer of funds or recoup losses.
