Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Massachusetts
Car Smashed and Radio Stolen While Being Installed
I was given radio equipment for my car for Christmas. I brought my car to the place where it was all purchased from, to have it installed. It took the place from 8am to about 3:45 pm to discover they did not have a piece they needed, so they could not install it. They parked my car far away from the building near no other cars and left the radio equipment inside my car. When I came to pick up my car the window was smashed and everything was stolen. The 5 or 6 people who were there with the door open to the building open claimed they didn't hear anything. Now when I attempt to contact the company they are unresponsive, and say they are not responsible.
It the company liable for the damage to my car and my stolen radio? Do I have a good case for Civil Court?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Car Smashed and Radio Stolen While Being Installed
As long as they had keys to car they are responsible. This is called a bailment. If they dol not pay, you have claim under consumer protection law and may be entitled to 3x amount lost plus attorneys fees.
Re: Car Smashed and Radio Stolen While Being Installed
Get an estimate for the repair, and present it to someone in charge. Keep copies of all documents, & track all of the information. I do not know the amount that would cost to repair the damge, but that will tell you where you could file a action for negligence.