I rented a car for my brother and he and some friends drove to Oregon. They were arrested for a crime and the car was towed. It has been over 2wks and I still have not gotten a release AND I am still paying the Rental Car company daily. Is there a certain time frame or law that allows them the right to keep the vehicle? Even if it was not in my brothers name? Please help
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ahsoasho2u2 says
Car is a rental, belongs to rental co, they know where it is, do not pay anything on it as it is impounded and not being used.
Zach says
If the vehicle was used in the commission of a crime it can be held for as long as they need it. This can include until after their trials are over with. It doesn’t matter if the car was in his name or your name. It was used in a crime and that is all that matters.
The problem with ahsoa’s idea is that the rental company did not receive the car back when you told them you would for something that is your fault. I know it’s your brother’s fault but it is technically not yours. Failure to pay can result in the rental car company coming after you for their lost profits on the vehicle in civil court and you having to pay for it. It’s not the rental company’s fault it got towed and impounded, it’s your brothers. You may be able to sue your brother civilly for this, although it may be murky on whether you can get a judgment.
ornery and mean says
If it was used in the commission of a crime it is probably being held in evidence. They can keep it until the case is completely heard and a decision is rendered. Could be a couple of more weeks, could just as easily be months!
It’s time to talk to the manager at the car rental place! Maybe they will not move on the charges, could be they will cut you a deal!
Your choices are 1) Do nothing and hope the car is released soon, then pay the total rental fee to the company. or 2) Talk to the management of the rental company and see about less expensive alternatives! Worst case – you are no worse off than you are now, stuck paying for the time the car sits in police holding. Best case – you might get lucky and the company will process the return after verifying that the car is in police holding, big break for you … you would not owe any more money after the contract is ended.
I’ve seen it go both ways, some managers will give the customer a break, other will hold them to the terms of the contract.
Bruce says
It can be held as long as it is needed for evidence. Who it belongs to is not significant.
If you are the one that rented it, you are still liable. If you have not already, contact the rental company and attempt to negotiate a termination of your lease.