Hi, I need the US S2000 community’s help………
I won’t waste your time with the details, but I used a US manufactured cleaning product on my car, but it was defective and it’s caused damage to the bodywork that’s going to cost c.US$2k to repair.

The manufacturer and its insurers are being obstructive and have, so far, refused to make good the damage, despite them acknowledging that the product caused the damage, and despite me providing the proof they said they needed that clearly demonstrates this.

So, can anyone tell me, is there any way that a UK national could pursue this issue through civil courts in the US, or via any other method, bearing in mind that I’m unable to physically attend court etc? For instance, we have ‘small claims’ court in the UK for low value claims of a few thousand pounds; is there anything like it in the US and if so, could I use it?

Thanks in advance for any advice and help you can give,
FB

 

We have small claims courts, and you can also do a trial 'by declaration' where you do exactly as you said, write in a letter. That said, I'm not entirely sure how that would work for international trials/cases. Sorry I can't be more help.

(Idea: Contact your nearest American consulate/embassy, and ask them what the best way to take legal proceedings against a U.S. company is)

 

Thanks very much for the info.

I did e:mail the US embassy in London a while back, but didn't get a response, so I'll get back on their case.

FB

 

What products?

 

What about contacting a UK based law firm with global ties that practice law in the US or a firm that has offices in both the UK and USA.

OR... tell the company you have access to 100K automotive enthusiasts that you will tell your story to and they have friends.

 

Honestly, it sounds too much of a headache for a $2000 claim. I understand the principle behind it, but still too much of a headache. If it were local, then it'd make more sense. Shit happens every day, and this sounds like one of those that needs to be let go because of too much of a hassle. That's just my opinion.

 

Trial by declaration usually isn't an option for small claims court. In fact, that's rarely an option at all as far as I know.