PostHeaderIcon California Lemon Law

When most people think of the California lemon law, they assume it will only protect them if they’ve purchased a brand new car from a dealership. That’s how many state laws are, but in sunny California, “certified pre-owned” used cars with warranty coverage can also be candidates for protection by law. Additionally, the CA lemon law also encompasses motorcycles, RVs, boats, trucks. SUVs, devices for assisted living, puppies and appliances. If an award is given, the manufacturer will have to pay the consumer’s hourly attorney advice fees and allow for a buyback, replacement vehicle or cash settlement.

One way consumers can cash in on the California Lemon Law is to contact the Better Business Bureau. Through www.bbb.org, they can simply click the “file a complaint” button to enter their grievances against a particular manufacturer. The BBB will then phone the consumer to go over the case details and then phone the manufacturer to get their side of the story. Often an arrangement can be made then because the manufacturer doesn’t want to lose good standing with the bureau or have negative remarks filed against them that could hurt business. However, these cases can sometimes be dragged out, which sends many consumers looking for a lawyer.

The best place to start with car lemon negotiations is with a law firm specializing in California lemon law. For instance, the Law Offices of William R. McGee is a well-known place to find lawyer help in California. This lawyer has been seen on news stations and billboard ads across the state and their website says they’ve successfully won over 9,000 cases. “We settle over 99.7% of our cases, most with zero fees and never any money due up-front to start your case,” says their website. “All of our cases are on a contingency basis, eliminating financial risk to our clients.” When the case is won, the law fees are paid by the manufacturer. Consumers can contact them at 1-800-225-3666 or at experts4u@aol.com.

There are some pitfalls to the do-it-yourself approach. First, some consumers dealing directly with the car manufacturer may unknowingly settle for less than what they’re entitled to. Manufacturers often offer a “buyback” deal and then resell the vehicle to another unknowing customer, without any disclosure! Secondly, if the vehicle is actually unsafe and dangerous or if the vehicle has been tampered with, the consumer may be entitled to additional compensation, rather than simply receiving a trade-in. When manufacturers sense the heat, they often try to put out the fire as quickly as possible, taking advantage of the consumer’s desire to put this matter behind them. In the process, the consumer may wind up with another automobile lemon off the lot and will not receive their full rights under the California lemon law. For this reason, many people opt for legal advice on the matter.

Rene Lacape is a seasoned insurance agent. He has been dealing with both corporate and individual accounts for several years up to the present. If you need him, you can check his website and give him a call. Act now.