‘I have a $2,000 deductible’: I reported a cracked windshield on my Hertz rental car. Can they charge me?

The case of a Hertz customer being potentially charged for a cracked windshield on their rental car raises questions about liability and insurance coverage. The customer claims they didn't hear a rock hit the windshield, suggesting it may have been damaged prior to their use. This scenario highlights the importance of thoroughly inspecting rental cars before driving off the lot and documenting any existing damage.

In the rental car industry, customers are often held responsible for damages to the vehicle, up to a certain deductible. In this case, the customer's deductible is $2,000, which is unusually high. Typically, rental car companies offer insurance options to customers, which can cover damages to the vehicle. However, it's unclear if the customer purchased this insurance or if it would cover a cracked windshield.

To watch next: it's essential to review the rental agreement and understand the terms and conditions of the insurance coverage. Customers should also take photos and report any existing damage to the rental car company before driving off the lot. In this case, the customer may want to dispute the charge or negotiate with Hertz to see if they can come to a resolution. The outcome will depend on Hertz's policies and the customer's insurance coverage, if any.

Originally reported by marketwatch.com. FundNews adds analysis for finance & markets readers.