Auto Insurance Claims: charged for rental over 120 days after accident, double billing, car rental company


Question
I'm sorry, I didn't add this information when I first posted the question... I checked, and the fee was covered (and paid for) by my car insurance.  Permission or not, this is double billing and I don't think it's right.  Otherwise, what's the point in having this coverage through an auto insurance?

... know what I mean?
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Can a car rental company charge me the rental fee 120 days after vehicle was returned, and without notifying me of the charge to my bank account?  

Is there a "statute of limitations" for charging me for the rental that, as far as I know, was covered by my insurance company?

The vehicle was rented on July 10th, returned on Aug 1st, and the rental fee was taken from my checking account on Nov. 29th, which is approximately 120 days after the vehicle was returned.

Please let me know asap... thanks!
-----Answer-----
Hi Gia,

When you rent a car, you sign certain documents that have you accept responsibility for payment of the charges. If you provided your bank account information for payment then they are authorized to take that payment when it is due. I don't know why thay waited 4 months to debit your account, but the fact remains that you authorized the charges. You knew how many days you rented the vehicle and what the daily charges were and you authorized them to deduct that amount from your checking account.  

When you authorize anyone to debit your checking account, they can do so at any time. There is no regulation that says they have to do it right away.

I'm sorry I don't have better news.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

Answer
Hi Gia,

That does make a big difference. If the bill was already paid then you need to contact the corporate office of the rental company A.S.A.P.

Also go to your bank and dispute the transaction.  Also call your insurance company. They should be able to provide you with proof that this bill was paid. Doing all of these things should ensure that you get your money back in a timely manner.  Also if you had any checks that were returned as NSF or overdrafter and you were charged any fees, the rental car company needs to cover those fees as well.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh