Robo-Dialed by Car Dealer or Others? Automated Calls Bothering You? Consumers are Protected.

Getting annoying calls, texts from car dealers or others?  The Hanson Law Firm can help. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) restricts marketing calls and text messages to cellphones and residential landlines by generally prohibiting communication using automated systems, artificial callers, or prerecorded voices unless the consumer gives “prior express consent.” The TCPA also specifies several requirements for fax machines, autodialers and voice messaging systems by requiring the marketer using the device to self-identify and reveal contact information in the message. The act permits a harmed “person or entity” to bring an action to recover monetary loss from such violations, and statutory penalties of $500 per violation, and up to $1,500 per knowing or willful violation.  Recent changes to the most commonly used form contract for car purchases in California secretly have you consenting to these annoyances.   The Feds, however, have clarified recently that secretly putting “prior consent” provisions on the back of contracts is NOT enough.