Under the terms of the settlement, the car rental companies will pay $1 million in restitution to affected consumers and $3.6 million in civil penalties and costs.
Additionally, Advantage Rent A Car and is affiliate agreed to stop charging excessive fees in the future. It will also appoint an executive-level employee responsible for ensuring compliance with the terms of the settlement and stipulated judgement.
In a statement, AG Becerra said the rental car companies caused real harm to California consumers who assumed that the received accurate repair bills. He added, “This settlement ensures immediate relief for hundreds of Californians, and sends a strong message to companies to abide by the law.”
On the other hand, O’Malley and Wagstaffe said their offices are committed to protecting consumers. They stresses car rental companies cannot overcharge consumers with repair costs.
