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-   -   Luggage- Camera Theft (https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/luggage-camera-theft-744152/)

susanowm Oct 22nd, 2007 05:11 AM

Luggage- Camera Theft
 
I must not have been thinking when I left my digital camera in my suitcase. When we arrived at our destination, the bag was ransacked, zippers on inside bags left open, pill cases, too, and my $500 camera is gone! The airline says they don't cover it and it must be TSA's fault (security screening). Is there no recourse for negligence? TSA will probably say the airline did it! Has anybody had a 'happy ending'? What should we do?

starrsville Oct 22nd, 2007 05:20 AM

I don't think there is any chance of a "happy ending".

Myer Oct 22nd, 2007 05:29 AM

We've all heard similar stories. Too bad.

I agree with starrsville. No happy ending here.

At least it was at the start of your trip and not the end. I hope you immediately went out and replaced it.

I also hope it didn't ruin the trip that most likely cost much more than the camera.



AAFrequentFlyer Oct 22nd, 2007 06:53 AM

Whether it will be a happy ending or not, you should take the time to fill out a claim form with TSA.

In some cases it's usually the same station where things seem to "get misplaced". If there are enough claims for any one particular station, TSA does run an "inside investigation".

Occasionaly TSA does catch the agents involved because the claims seem to pinpoint were the problems are.

So do it if for no other reason but to help get rid of the probmlem employees.

http://www.tsa.dhs.gov/travelers/cus...ims/index.shtm


Good luck!

nohomers Oct 22nd, 2007 07:56 AM

Depending on the credit card you used to purchase the airline ticket, the credit card company may cover the loss. Secondly, if you have homeowners insurance your policy may also cover the loss. You should look into both.

rkkwan Oct 22nd, 2007 08:50 AM

Local TV station and your congressman may help to, if you incline.

suze Oct 22nd, 2007 11:34 AM

Sorry for your loss Susan... but hopefully your posts serves as a reminder for other not to put any valuables in a checked suitcase. No prescription drugs, cameras, videocams, laptops, jewelry, or cash. Nothing of financial value that is easy to liquidate or that would be difficult for you to replace (prescription glasses and sunglasses, as example).


AAFrequentFlyer Oct 22nd, 2007 11:40 AM

<i>Travel Wholly within the 50 States of the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
Liability is limited to $3000 per ticketed passenger for travel on or after February 28, 2007

No liability for damage or loss of protruding baggage parts such as wheels, straps, pockets, pull handles, hanger hooks or other items attached to baggage

No liability for baggage carried in the passenger cabin

<b>No liability for photographic equipment, computers, VCRs and any other electronic equipment including software or components, jewelry, cash, documents, furs, works of art or other similar valuable items</b>

Other items that are not covered in our limit of liability include, but are not limited to: antiques, books, china, fragile items, liquids, medicines, perishable items, securities and negotiable papers or silverware</i>


This is from AA site but I imagine that most domestic airlines have the same policy.

International travel has even less liability.

Anyways, as I posted earlier, please file a report with TSA. It may not help you but it may help others.

dmlove Oct 22nd, 2007 12:31 PM

Even if they didn't have you waive liability as the previous post indicates, it would be impossible for you to prove &quot;who done it&quot;, making recovery equally impossible.

rkkwan Oct 22nd, 2007 12:33 PM

Check ebay! :D

LN Oct 22nd, 2007 12:41 PM

Sorry to hear what happened. Did you, by chance, opt for travel insurance? If so, you're probably covered there and also your homeowners insurance does cover you against most thefts of this nature while travelling.

I hope you are covered by either of these insurances.

nytraveler Oct 22nd, 2007 07:24 PM

Every airline - as well as common sense - clearly tells you NOT to pack either valuables or medication in checked luggage. Neither the airline nor TSA will help you.

You could try your homeowner's insurance - but I doubt they will cover it given the circumstances.

TxTravelPro Oct 22nd, 2007 07:31 PM

What city? What airline?
I'm sorry... but what the H*** were you thinking???


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