Rental car damage and insurance issues

NewHope33
Thu, 27 May 2010 21:08:38 +0000

OK, just one more story …

It’s easy to complain about Alamo … I’ve done it myself. But here’s a positive experience.

In August 2005 DW took DD to New Orleans for the start of her freshman year. DW rented from Alamo (humming “a three hour cruise”) and escaped across Lake Pontchartrain just ahead of Katrina. When it was clear a return to New Orleans wasn’t practical, DW booked a flight home out of Birmingham. When she turned the car in the counter staff insisted she owed a “not returned to original site” fee. DW explained that that (a) the evacuation was mandatory, (b) the New Orleans location was closed, and (c) the New Orleans location was under six feet of water. These arguments were not accepted.

When DW arrived back home she called Alamo service and explained the situation. The lady was very nice. “Alamo doesn’t believe in taking advantage of our customers’ misfortunes. Thank you for taking care of our car.” The extra fee was waived.