What can I do if my booked rental car is not available?
April 5, 2024 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Ralf Schlittmaier
Dear Sir or Madam,
Recently, I booked a rental car for my vacation through an online platform. However, when I arrived at the agreed pickup location, the booked car was not available. Instead, a smaller vehicle was offered to me, which does not meet my needs.
I am now concerned as I specifically booked a larger vehicle for my family and our luggage. The smaller car does not provide enough space and comfort for our planned trip. Additionally, I paid a higher price for the larger vehicle and therefore feel cheated out of my money.
My question is, what legal steps can I take now to uphold my rights as a customer and receive a proper solution? Can I demand compensation for the inconvenience caused? Are there ways to cancel the rental agreement and get my money back?
I would greatly appreciate your assistance in helping me understand and enforce my rights in this situation. I look forward to your expertise and support in resolving this issue.
Sincerely,
Greta Lippert
Dear Mrs. Lippert,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the issue with the rental car for your vacation. I am sorry to hear that you were faced with the situation of being offered a smaller vehicle instead of the larger one you had booked. It is understandable that you are concerned about your rights as a customer and seeking an appropriate solution to this problem.
Generally, customers who book a rental car have certain rights and claims in case of irregularities or problems with the booking. If the rental company is unable to provide the agreed upon vehicle, you have the right to demand a suitable alternative. This means that the company is obligated to provide you with a vehicle that meets your needs, or offer you a refund.
Since you specifically booked a larger vehicle for your family and luggage and were offered a smaller car instead, this is definitely a breach of the rental contract. You have the right to demand appropriate compensation for the inconvenience caused. This can be in the form of a price reduction, a refund of part of the rental price, or other compensations.
If the rental company is not willing to offer an appropriate solution, you have the option to take legal action. You can consult a travel law attorney like myself to understand and enforce your rights. It is possible to challenge the rental contract due to the company's breach of contract terms and demand a refund of the amount paid.
It is important that you gather and keep all relevant information and documents, such as the rental contract, booking confirmation, and all communication with the company. These can serve as evidence for your case.
I strongly recommend that you seek legal advice and assistance from an attorney in this matter. I am here to assist you in resolving this issue and defending your rights as a customer.
Sincerely,
Ralf Schlittmaier
Travel Law Attorney
