Car Repair Shop Going in Wrong Direction With Logo, AAA Says

A Texas transmission repair business cannot use "AAA" as part of its name because the American Automobile Association owns the trademark for the term, the travel services organization alleges in a trademark infringement lawsuit.

AAA Champion Trans Inc. refuses to stop infringing the trademark, AAA says in the suit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas.

AAA is the well-known nonprofit organization that provides roadside assistance and assists travelers who need directions.

According to the complaint, AAA learned in April that AAA Champion Trans, which also does business as AAA Transmission Service, uses the triple-A designation as part of its name.

The defendant has refused AAA's request to stop using the designation, the suit says.

Champion's use of the AAA mark is likely to confuse and deceive the public about the source of the shop's services, the complaint says.

The lawsuit alleges trademark infringement, dilution, false and misleading advertising, and unfair competition.

AAA seeks an award of any profits Champion has derived from its sales of products and services containing the disputed designation, along with treble and punitive damages.

To comment, ask questions or contribute articles, contact West.Andrews.Editor@ThomsonReuters.com.

AAA is represented by John Zavitsanos of Ahmad, Zavitsanos & Anaipakos in Houston.