Increase in Complaints from UK Car Hire Customers
The UK European Consumer Centre (UKECC), the leading consumer group, has warned that car hire customers need to get smarter about renting vehicles in the European Union. This warning comes after the group claims that motorists are failing to take simple precautions when hiring on the mainland.
This statement follows the UKECC getting a sharp increase in consumer complaints relating to car rentals in the EU. They say that the number of complaints has skyrocketed during the first part of this year, while general inquiries have also risen.
The UKECC reports that almost 30% more complaints have been made from UK motorists during the first 5 months of 2010, which is compared to the same 5 months last year. The most common countries where they complain include Ireland, France, Spain and Italy.
Jed Mayatt, the manager of the UKECC, said that they were aware that complaints are rising, but they didn’t expect such a high level. He is urging UK car hire customers to get better organized and smarter about EU rental contracts, which can be very different from those in their home country.
Mayatt also said that the tough economy can leave consumers more vulnerable, and holidaymakers have a tendency to be more relaxed and trusting while away from home. Their advice is to take steps to make the entire process go as smooth as possible, he added.
The consumer group has created a new leaflet to aid travelers in negotiating tricky contracts, no matter if they are on a leisure holiday or business trip. The leaflet can be downloaded via their website.
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