Nearly one in three cars on the road have recalled parts of problems, and vehicle rental companies may only be adding to the problem.
Consumer groups and lawmakers are urging the Federal Trade Commission to reassess laws making it legal for rental car companies to rent vehicles without fixing recalled parts and pieces. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., asked the FTC on Monday to end the practice that could be putting rental car drivers in danger, telling the agency that “if automotive dealers are not allowed to sell recalled vehicles without first fixing the safety issues, then rental car companies should be held to the same standard,” according to NPR.
Many car renters don’t know whether their vehicle has been subject to recall, putting their safety in the hands of the rental company and their vehicles.
As a North Charleston personal injury lawyer, I think it’s important for rental places to ensure the cars they are providing are safe. There have been nearly 20 million auto recalls this year alone, including a series of Toyota recalls.
Auto dealers are required to fix vehicles, but car rental places have been left out of the law thus far. If the issue gains enough momentum, Congress could take up the matter next year.