§ 18c-5202 — Commission to prescribe dispute resolution procedures

(1) Within 180 days after the effective date of this amendatory Act of 1995, the Commission shall propose rules specifying the procedures by which disputes between carriers and shippers to which this Sub-chapter is applicable will be resolved. Upon adoption, the rules will be applicable to all household goods carriers. (2) Standards for dispute resolution procedures. The rules adopted by the Commission shall be calculated to provide for the objective, expeditious, and inexpensive resolution of household goods disputes, and shall include, without limitation, provisions dealing with: the location of any required hearings; required notifications; whether participation in a dispute resolution procedure is mandatory; and how the fees and costs of the procedures shall be distributed. To the extent authorized by Commission rules, procedures adopted under this Article may specify that dispute resolution services will be provided by the Commission, and in accordance with procedural rules adopted by the Commission. (3) Grounds for Resolution of Household Goods Disputes. A dispute under this Article shall be resolved adverse to the carrier if: (a) The carrier assessed a rate not contained in a lawfully applicable tariff or tariffs for such services; (b) The carrier failed to fully apprise the shipper, prior to execution of any contract or contract amendment covering the services, of the lawful rates and charges for such services; (c) Damages to lading occurred during the loading, transportation, or unloading of the shipments, or rendition of any accessorial service by the carrier, its employees or agents, without regard to negligence or fault, and the shipper did not elect in writing to assume liability for all or part of such damages.

Legislative History

(Source: P.A. 89-444, eff. 1-25-96.)