Accident with car rental in Greece
I was in a car accident in Naxos and need some quick advice, because I'm stressing a bit now as I'm leaving tomorrow morning
I rented a car from a local company (in person, not online). At the counter, I wasn't offered any insurance options or CDW - just a total price, a €500 deposit, my licence, and a contract to sign. No mention of opt-ins.
I had a collision. My fault, genuine accident. The company said third-party damage is covered by their liability insurance, but I'm on the hook for the rental car. The visible damage is front-end: plate holder, lower grille/bumper area, possibly sensor mounts. Headlights, bonnet, and windscreen looked fine.
The next day they sent me a DAT estimate for €3,370.89 incl. VAT - bumper, grille, brackets, air ducts, adaptive cruise sensor. The estimate itself notes the final cost can't be confirmed until disassembly.
Here's the thing: my signed contract shows the €500 deposit, but lists "Excess Amount: €0.00". The contract also says liability is limited per damage to "the above Excess Amount plus VAT," assuming rental terms were followed. I only found out afterwards - by checking their website - that CDW is an optional add-on with a €500 excess. I was never told this at the counter.
The owner told me I must pay the full €3,370.89 before I leave. He said I had no collision coverage because I didn't opt in, and that I couldn't leave until it was settled.
I don't have €3,370. I'm willing to let them keep the €500 deposit while it's disputed - but I don't want to accept the full amount in writing without understanding whether there's a legal basis for it.
Can a Greek rental company legally prevent me from leaving over a disputed civil claim?
Is this a civil dispute (not criminal), given the accident was reported and I'm returning the car?
If I return the car, leave the €500, and dispute the rest in writing - what's the worst that can happen?
How much does "Excess Amount: €0.00" on the signed contract actually matter here?
I'm not trying to dodge responsibility - I reported the accident and want to handle it properly. But I feel pressured to hand over a large sum immediately, and the estimate isn't even final. My insurance will only cover the
Any advice appreciated, especially given the timing.