Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Rule targets bait-and-switch tactics, junk fees; includes clear protections for military members, who are frequent targets for vehicle scams
Not Your Father’s Payment Assurance Device – A Plea to Regulators
Back in the heyday of WordStar, Lotus 123, and other advanced PC programs in the early 1990's, I had the rare privilege of being a receiver for a Buy Here Pay Here store. I was responsible for winding down its operations as a result of a RICO forfeiture case on behalf of the Florida Attorney General's Office. I was responsible …
The Black Box of Government Regulation
The term "black box" refers to the concept of a device, or a box, in which there is input, something is moved or transferred into it, and voila, out of this device or box there is a measurable and quantifiable outcome. But, the workings of the box itself remain a total mystery. The human brain, especially in some people, such …
A View from the Dark Side
Car dealers and the industry, in general, are savvy, creative entrepreneurs and possess great common sense. But, they have an enormous blind spot as it relates to how they are perceived by the regulating community. Federal and state agencies, consumer protection organizations, and private plaintiffs, the Dark Side, are openly hostile to the industry of which dealers are unaware. This …
Everything You Need to Know About Advertising Cars and Trucks
There is simply no way a short column could address every issue. However, advertising isn’t that complex and conscientious dealers can certainly understand the basics and apply them. I would never discourage dealers from using their attorneys or advertising firms for assistance in these matters. But, understanding advertising basics will help