BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (AP) - A Battle Creek man has resolved an issue over a car he thought he’d properly sold until he was charged $2,600 for its impoundment.
After purchasing a new car, Jonny Rozela sold his sedan in August to a Craigslist buyer for $325 in cash, WOOD-TV (https://bit.ly/2h96klk ) reported. Rozela took the plate, removed his insurance from the car, signed over the title and made sure the buyer signed it.
The title was signed, however, it was never taken to a Secretary of State’s office. And Rozela doesn’t have any proof the deal was made.
“Biggest mistake I have here is (I) didn’t get a bill of sale,” he said.
A few weeks ago, Rozela received a letter from the Michigan Secretary of State that said the vehicle had been impounded for almost three months. The car, which was still technically in Rozela’s name, had apparently broken down after the sale.
Rozela contacted the buyer after receiving the notice. The buyer claimed the car was gone when he and his friend returned to fix it. The buyer also claimed he had lost the title and Rozela’s number.
McClaine’s Towing charged Rozela a $163 towing fee and had him sign over the title to the towing company, which will keep the car for parts.
“My word of advice would be to, even if it’s a family member, make sure to get a bill of sale if you’re selling it to someone,” Rozela said.
The Secretary of State’s office advises sellers to go with buyers to an office to make sure the title is officially transferred.
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Information from: WOOD-TV, https://www.woodtv.com
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