Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

Catch-22 : My rights as a renter (car rentals)

In late Feb, I rented a car for a leisure trip. During the rental period, I was caught in the middle of a police pursuit and accidentally ran over the spike strips. CHP agreed to reimburse me for the damages (350.00). However, per CHP the claim can only be filed by the owner of the car. When I returned the car, I explained the situation to the lady behind the desk - The rental car company would have to file a claim with the CHP and when they get paid by the CHP, they would forward the money to me. Everyone was in agreement. I filed the claims paperwork and was told that they would do the rest. I followed up a couple of times in the following days & was told that they are waiting for a response from the CHP and that this might take a long time. Now, after 2 months, when I call to follow up on the claim status, I'm being told that they can not help me with this. I understand what they are trying to say - that the vehicle has been returned in good condition and that there is nothing in this for them. But I'm now caught up in a catch-22 situation. CHP would not reimburse me as I'm not the owner of the vehicle. I'd like to know what my rights are & how do I straighten this out. Your expert advice will be very much appreciated.


Asked on 5/05/03, 6:27 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alvin Tenner Law Office of Alvin G. Tenner

Re: Catch-22 : My rights as a renter (car rentals)

Ypu can and should sue the rental company in small claims court for the money. Be sure to bring in the CHP to show that the rental company did nothing to recover the money.

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Answered on 5/07/03, 11:15 pm


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