I think both Platepass and the agencies are to blame, although Hertz recently changed its policy so the fee is only per day used, which is more logical and palatable than the previous policy. But I do feel somewhat for the employees, so when I’ve had to dispute charges, I try to be extra nice in my written or verbal communications. Not too long ago I was charged the fee because my personal EZpass didn’t read for whatever reason. It was actually relatively easy getting the administrative fees reversed, over email.

One does have to wonder what is IT glitches vs. unscrupulous business practices, like if they’re trying to see if they can get away with lots of little charges that many people will ignore. I don’t know if it makes sense to forward complaints to the attorney general or something, even when they get resolved in your favor, because someone should be tracking this. And I’m not talking about high fees that are disclosed (in the fine—but I think usually bold—print).