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Motor Vehicle Defect Law in Abuja, and Nigeria as a whole, revolves around issues that concern manufacturing flaws, operational faults, or damages incurred due to road accidents. The law primarily safeguards the rights of the consumer by holding manufacturers or responsible parties accountable for their negligence or failure to fulfill their commitment to safety standards.
Hiring a lawyer may become necessary when you face issues such as faulty components, structural defects, or safety-standard inconsistencies in your vehicle. For instance, if you’ve purchased a brand-new car with an inoperative engine or detrimental body defects, a lawyer can guide you through the process of claiming compensation or initiating a product recall. Similarly, if you’re injured because of a vehicle defect during a road accident, legal counsel could help you file a suit against the manufacturer or party responsible.
The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Act, 2007 and the National Automotive Council Act, 2004 are the primary governing laws concerning motor vehicles in Nigeria. The Consumer Protection Council (CPC) also serves to protect the rights of consumers against sub-standard vehicles or parts. These legal frameworks provide a basis for holding manufacturers, importers or dealers accountable for any form of vehicle defects, non-compliance with specified safety standards or negligence leading to adverse implications for the consumer.
In legal terms, a motor vehicle defect includes any fault in the performance, construction, components, or material of a vehicle that poses a risk to the vehicle's users, or fails to meet the stipulated safety standards.
Yes, if you or a family member has been injured due to a vehicle defect, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer or responsible party for negligence or non-compliance with safety standards.
The court may grant compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress, loss of earnings, medical bills, or cost of vehicle repair or replacement.
Depending on the nature and implications of the defect, you may be eligible to file a claim even after the warranty period, though this would require legal advice based on the specifics of your case.
Even with a vehicle recall, you may still have the right to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer if you’ve suffered losses or injuries due to the defect.
The Federal Road Safety Commission, National Automotive Council, and the Consumer Protection Council are key institutions you can refer to for detailed information and guidance about motor vehicle regulations and consumer rights in Nigeria.
If you feel that you need legal assistance related to Motor Vehicle Defect, consider seeking advice from a law firm that specializes in this field. Prepare all necessary documents such as receipts, warranty proofs, records of correspondence with the vehicle dealer or manufacturer, and any other document that validates your claim. This will make it easier for the lawyer to understand your case and advise you accordingly.
