Metro Atlanta Uber Driver Receives $2,000 Refund After Yearlong Battle
UPDATE: A metro Atlanta Uber driver, Savian Walker, has finally received a refund of nearly $2,000 from Hertz after a lengthy dispute that began in January 2024. This urgent resolution follows a Channel 2 Action News investigation that uncovered a billing error that nearly devastated Walker’s finances.
Walker was initially charged an unexpected fee labeled as a “driver’s fee,” which caused an overdraft in his bank account, leading to its closure. After facing continuous silence from Hertz’s customer service, Walker reached out to Channel 2 Action News, which took immediate action on his behalf.
“I just thought it would be a good opportunity for me to continue making money,” Walker stated during a recent Zoom interview. He had rented a vehicle from Hertz as part of their partnership with Uber, agreeing to pay close to $2,000 for a six-week rental to sustain his income as a driver. Instead, he was shocked to see an additional charge of more than $1,900 appear on his bill.
“Walker says the driver fee ended up overdrawing my checking account,” he explained, emphasizing the financial strain it caused him.
Despite numerous attempts to clarify the charges, including emails to both the College Park location and Hertz’s corporate office, Walker received no responses until Channel 2 intervened. Following their inquiry, a Hertz representative confirmed that the fee was a mistake and issued the refund.
“I really just felt super relieved,” Walker expressed, reflecting on the emotional toll of the situation. He hopes that by sharing his experience, other drivers can learn to take similar steps if they find themselves in comparable predicaments.
Notably, a review of Hertz’s website by Channel 2 Action News found no mention of a “driver’s fee,” raising further questions about how such an error could occur. Walker remarked, “I’m glad I took the necessary steps to get their attention, and other Uber drivers who might be in similar situations can do the same.”
As this story unfolds, it highlights the critical importance of consumer advocacy and the role of investigative journalism in resolving customer disputes.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and follow Channel 2 Action News for breaking news alerts.
