From Indiatimes · TOI World Desk · · 1m 40s
Missouri couple loses car ownership after signing title to tow-truck driver
A Missouri couple signed their wrecked Lexus title to an unidentified tow-truck driver in 2018, but an appeals court ruled they no longer owned the car despite a $6,450 towing bill.
In brief
A Missouri couple signed their wrecked Lexus title to an unidentified tow-truck driver in 2018, but an appeals court ruled they no longer owned the car despite a $6,450 towing bill. A Missouri couple signed their wrecked Lexus title to an unidentified tow-truck driver in 2.018, but an appeals court ruled they no…
What happened
A Missouri couple gave their wrecked Lexus and signed title to an unidentified tow-truck driver in 2018.
The towing bill
The car resurfaced years later with a $6,450 towing bill.
The court ruling
An appeals court ruled they no longer owned the car.
The legal principle
The case turned on estoppel and title transfer consequences.
The dispute
The Keeners argued they still owned the vehicle and should not be responsible for charges.
The towing company's position
Somerset Apartment Management said the Keeners legally owned the car at the time charges were assessed.
Why the Keeners lost
The court found the title transfer was sufficient to show ownership abandonment.
The towing bill amount
The $6,450 towing bill was found legitimate for services rendered.
What it means for car owners
Vehicle owners should be cautious of working with tow-truck drivers or third parties.
The legal lesson
The case shows courts can use estoppel to stop parties from backing out of transactions.
The consequence
The Keeners are left with a $6,450 tow bill.
The big picture
A Missouri couple signed their wrecked Lexus title to an unidentified tow-truck driver in 2.018, but an appeals court ruled they no longer owned the car despite a $6,450 towing bill.
