Q: Small Claims case? Besides (see description) police was called on me without reason, I had addl. $ losses and got sick
Dec. 30 @4pm arrived to full svc carwash, left car keys with attendant and sat inside waiting area. 10-15 mins later carwash manager approached me saying that the car key broke, stuck inside ignition and they will push the car out in the street so I would take care of it. I said, fine, but you will pay for the locksmith, naturally. Manager answered- absolutely not, this is not our fault(???). I said, OK we'll see about that, called AAA and they arranged locksmith within 1.5 hrs. I came out to speak with locksmith, he didn't find the broken out piece of key in ignition but somewhere around rear seats- the carwash asst. manager and locksmith spent 5 mins searching for piece. I passed to carwash manager options from locksmith: cheaper for the piece only, or more expensive, for the entire key- he refused both. So, I instructed locksmith to make the entire key. Meanwhile I noticed two police patrol cars arrived to the carwash and policemen speaking with the manager- he called police on me!
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A:
You described a difficult experience at the car wash, and it’s understandable that you feel upset. Having your key broken and then being confronted by police can create unnecessary stress.
If you believe the car wash was responsible for the damage, you can gather receipts, written statements from witnesses, and any photos that support your claim. Small claims court often addresses cases like this involving property damage and out-of-pocket costs. It might help to show how the incident caused you additional expenses and affected your well-being.
Before filing, check the small claims rules in your state so you meet the requirements. Prepare all evidence in an organized manner, and be ready to explain what happened. Your goal is to show the court how the car wash's actions led to financial loss, emotional distress, or other harm.
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