Having read the article:

1) Most people never read the fine print. Companies know that and take advantage of it, but on the flip-side, personal responsibility (a novel concept in our current society, I know) should be in play here.

2) While it doesn't apply in this case, changes to agreements already "in force" (as, say a member of a frequent-renter/stay/flyer program) should be mailed to the customer, just as my banks send me a mail about changes to my credit card agreement. It should not be "slip-streamed" in. Yes, I should read the fine-print every time just to be safe and sure, but some effort on their part should be made as well. If they mail it to me, and I fail to read it, well then I should be held personaly-responsible.

3) If a rental company wishes to place geographical restrictions on rentals (as Hertz does with Mexico), that is their right. And if they want to charge extra for the privellege of not being bound by those restrictions, that is also their right.

4) I do not believe that rental companies should act as law-enforcement agencies and fine people for moving violations (as that CT company tried to do). That is the exclusive purview of the State. If I get in an accident due to my own negligence, the rental company has the right to sue me and/or my insurance company to recover damages if I fail to carry their LDW.

[This message has been edited by SEA_Tigger (edited Jan 16, 2004).]