Burglaries take place in the middle of where anger and conflict reside… whereas repossessions easily happen under cover or darkness so as to avoid confrontation. This effect in varying dimensions is described as follows:
Timing of Repossessions
Repossessions are not a 9-5 job and can happen any time of the day or night. When you are going about your business, and have no idea that at any moment of the day or even while asleep in bed — could result with someone taking away your car. Night-time repossessions are designed to sidestep a Breach of the Peace (by force or encouraged;) in other words, it is primarily used as an excuse during this stage12.
Legal Framework
The Security Agreement signed by the borrower serves as a legal basis for repossession. By signing the contract, lenders are afforded some rights including vehicle repossession if payments fall behind on schedule — and there were no restraints with regards to when vehicles could be collected. Thus, a repossession can legally take place at any time as long as it is done in the peaceable possession of the vehicle34.
Emotional Versus Practical
Realizing the emotional cost of a repossession is hard, and for most people comes on suddenly with little warning. Lenders suggest borrowers prepare for potential repossession by keeping the lines of communication open with lenders and knowing what recourse they have under their loan contract. Help cope with stress or confusion, a proactive approach during challenging times23.
So no one is invulnerable repossessions, which naturally raises the stakes on being aware and prepared for borrowers.
