Do you feel like you have one of the worst cars ever made?
Navigating the lemon law process can be frustrating, even in the best circumstances. If you are unfamiliar with the legal system, you may even fail in your efforts. It’s also possible to be nervous to take action. After all is a lemon law attorney worth the cost?
However, consulting with a lemon law attorney can keep you on the right track. If you want to succeed in your goals, preparing for what a legal counselor will make the meeting even more productive. So, keep reading to learn more and schedule your first consultation with a local lawyer today.
Questions to Expect from a Lemon Law Attorney
Most legal counselors ask a similar series of questions for lemon law cases. The following represent some of the most crucial issues they usually want to address.
When Did You First Notice These Problems?
This question is essential because it can help establish a timeline. State lemon law and your warranty dictate the time frame for pursuing a claim. Generally, the statute of limitations is usually between 12 and 24 months after buying the vehicle. Alternatively, you could have until you reach 12,000 to 24,000 miles. However, it’s important to note that some states may have different requirements.
What Problems Have You Experienced with Your Vehicle?
Generally, the problems that may qualify under lemon law depend on state law. However, these regulations often address the following types of issues:
- Persistent mechanical problems
- Fuel system leaks or failures
- Safety concerns like faulty brakes, defective airbags, or faulty steering systems
- Electrical system failures like battery or wiring issues
- Structural issues include problems with the frame, suspension, or alignment.
- Transmission difficulties such as delayed engagement or slipping gears
- Cooling system concerns like coolant leaks or a leaking radiator
How Long Has the Vehicle Been Out of Service?
A lemon lawyer will likely ask how long the vehicle has been out of service. Many laws require the automobile to be unusable for an established amount of time. As expected, the required duration can vary depending on where you live. But most states, like Texas, expect you to be unable to use it for 30 days or more.
Have You Made Any Modifications to the Vehicle?
Modifications to your vehicle can make or break your lemon law case. In most situations, they will void any guarantee. Additionally, unauthorized changes may cause issues not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. If you had another shop work on your automobile, your attorney must check whether they contributed to the problems.
How Many Times Have You Taken the Vehicle in for Repairs?
This question establishes whether a crucial requirement has occurred. The manufacturer gets a reasonable number of attempts to repair the same issue. These efforts must happen before the law considers the vehicle a lemon.
Nonetheless, the specific number of repair attempts required can differ depending on your jurisdiction. The nature of the problem can also be a factor. For instance, consider these requirements identified by the Minnesota Attorney General:
- Four or more repair attempts for the same issue
- One repair attempt on the braking or steering system
Are You Still Making Payments on the Vehicle?
If you continue to make payments, it may impact your ability to pursue a claim. For example, the manufacturer may offer to repurchase or replace the vehicle. This action will release you from the obligation to make further payments. Regardless, the company may not have this requirement at the end of the day.
What Is Your Desired Outcome?
The desired outcome for a lemon law case may range depending on your circumstances. Accordingly, a lemon law lawyer will ask this question to understand and set expectations. You may also want to learn about some lemon law cases that may apply to your broken car, in order to gain a well rounded perspective.
It may turn out that you only want to make sure your vehicle gets repaired or replaced. But there are instances where you also seek repair costs, rental car fees, and other expenses. In others, you may even have lost wages to recover the compensatory damages. Your attorney will evaluate each angle and advise you on how to successfully recover these claims. Just make sure you hired an experienced lemon law attorney.
Other Ways to Prepare for Your Consultation
Many lemon law attorneys will provide a free, no-obligation consultation. This session is an opportunity to get invaluable details from their experience and expertise. Consequently, here are some tips others have found helpful to walk out of the meeting with more confidence:
- Gather Documents: Collect any records related to your vehicle. You can start with the purchase agreement, repair orders, service records, and warranty information. These will help the attorney evaluate your case and determine whether you have a valid claim.
- Take Notes: Create a comprehensive list of the issues with your vehicle. You will also want to include details like how many repairs have happened.
- Bring a Friend: Consider bringing a trusted confidante or family member. This person can help provide another perspective, emotional support, or even be a witness.
- Be Prepared to Ask Questions: Come prepared with a list of questions. You may want to know about their experience, the laws in your state, and their strategy for your case.
Schedule Your Consultation With a Lemon Law Attorney
If you have persistent problems with your vehicle, it may qualify under current regulations, or maybe subject to a recent auto recall. But a consultation with a lemon law attorney will help you be sure it is worth the effort. They will ask questions as you read above and evaluate your case carefully.
Don’t let a lemon vehicle continue to cause you frustration and expense. Request legal help today through our website or call (866) 345-6784.
