A mother in Chicago is speaking out after she and her daughter got stuck inside a rented electric vehicle. Becky Liebau had borrowed a Tesla from Hertz as she was in need of a car for her college tours with her daughter. Little did she know, her trip would turn into a nightmare.
Liebau, who had no prior experience driving an electric vehicle, found herself locked inside the car when the doors wouldn’t open. She attempted to call Hertz’s roadside assistance department for help, but no one came to their aid. However, they were able to contact a tow truck, who instructed them on how to escape the vehicle using a release button in the back. They crawled out of the trunk and were taken to a hotel.
The next day, Liebau started receiving monthly invoices from Hertz, demanding payment for the rental. Refusing to pay, she was then banned from renting a car by the company. Frustrated, Liebau reached out to a local news station for help. Following media intervention, Hertz admitted their mistake and issued a statement apologizing for the inconvenience caused. They refunded all charges and provided reimbursement for related travel expenses.
Hertz mentioned that customer service is their top priority, and they strive to provide vehicles that meet the needs and preferences of their customers. They acknowledged that transitioning to electric vehicles can be new for some customers and promised to provide robust digital content and other resources to help customers feel comfortable on the road.
This incident highlights the importance of proper education and support when renting electric vehicles, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the technology. It also serves as a reminder for rental companies to prioritize customer service and ensure that their vehicles are in good working condition before renting them out.
Sources:
– CBS Chicago (local affiliate of WBBM-TV)
– The U.S. Sun