The American Repossessor

For millions of Americans who have had a tough time making ends meet during the recession, things like keeping up with car payments can be harder than ever.

Some people will see damage to their credit score if they are unable to keep up with monthly payments. But for those who fall far enough behind on their auto loans, things can get even worse, with unwanted calls from bill collectors and visits from repossession agents.

In fact, a recent report from the National Consumer Law Center cites the occasional run-ins between debtors and repossession agents that have turned violent and resulted in injuries and other trauma. With that in mind, the organization is maintains that consumers need greater legal protections when it comes to dealing with repossession agents.

“Not a single state guarantees automobile owners a day in court before a repossession,” said John Van Alst,, the principal author of the report, “Only a handful of states have even minimal consumer protections such as requiring that repo agents have licenses, bonds or insurance.”

The group also suggested that when necessary, repossessions should be conducted by law enforcement personnel. Even those who do not end up facing repossession could find themselves behind on a payment or two in the current financial climate.