Best Motor Vehicle Defect Lawyers in Massachusetts

About Motor Vehicle Defect Law in Massachusetts, United States

Motor vehicle defect law in Massachusetts covers legal issues arising when a vehicle has a defect that may compromise the safety, value, or use of the vehicle. These defects may include anything from faulty brakes or airbags to electrical problems or manufacturing errors. Massachusetts residents are protected under both state and federal laws, with remedies available if a defect causes injury or leads to a dangerous incident. The Massachusetts Lemon Law and various federal safety standards work together to ensure manufacturers and sellers are held accountable for defective automobiles.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Dealing with a defective vehicle can be stressful and complex. Many individuals seek legal help in situations including:

• If the defect led to an accident causing personal injury or property damage
• When a dealership or manufacturer refuses to repair, replace, or repurchase a defective vehicle under warranty
• If a defect was discovered after purchase and you are unsure about your rights
• For assistance pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or other damages caused by a defective vehicle
• When you need to navigate Massachusetts’s Lemon Law or file a complaint with relevant authorities
• When facing pressure to settle or sign waivers

A lawyer can help investigate the defect, gather necessary evidence, represent your interests in negotiations, and, if needed, file a lawsuit to help you secure fair compensation.

Local Laws Overview

Massachusetts has comprehensive laws regarding motor vehicle defects. Important local regulations include:

• The Massachusetts Lemon Law applies to most new vehicles and some used vehicles purchased from licensed dealers. This law mandates that if a substantial defect is found within a defined period or mileage limit, the manufacturer must repair, replace, or refund the vehicle.
• The Used Vehicle Warranty Law requires dealers to fix certain defects in used cars within specified timeframes after the sale.
• Consumers are protected by federal laws such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall process and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which provide additional remedies if a manufacturer fails to honor a warranty.
• Strict product liability principles also apply in Massachusetts, allowing injured parties to recover damages without proving negligence if the defect made the product unreasonably dangerous.

For all these laws, prompt action and keeping detailed records of repairs, communications, and defects are crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a motor vehicle defect?

A motor vehicle defect is any flaw or failure in the vehicle’s design, manufacturing, or parts that might impair its safety, use, or value. Common examples include faulty airbags, brakes, electrical components, and steering mechanisms.

Is my used car covered under Massachusetts’s Lemon Law?

Yes, Massachusetts’s Lemon Law provides limited coverage for certain used cars bought from licensed dealers. The coverage depends on factors like the car’s age, mileage, and the date the defect was reported.

How long do I have to report a defect for my vehicle to be considered under Lemon Law?

Generally, defects in a new car should be reported within 15 months or 15,000 miles, whichever comes first. For used cars, the coverage period depends on the vehicle’s mileage at purchase, often ranging from 30 to 90 days or 1,250 to 3,750 miles.

What can I receive if my claim is successful?

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to free repairs, vehicle replacement, a refund, or compensation for damages such as medical expenses or lost wages if injuries are involved.

What should I do if my vehicle is recalled?

Follow the manufacturer’s recall notice instructions, which usually include contacting an authorized dealer for free repairs. If the recall work cannot be completed or causes more issues, consult a lawyer for further steps.

How do I know if a defect caused my accident?

If you suspect a mechanical or design issue contributed to an accident, an attorney can help arrange expert inspections and analyze accident reports to determine if a defect played a role.

Do I have to give the manufacturer several chances to fix my car?

Massachusetts law generally allows the manufacturer a reasonable number of attempts (often three) to repair the defect before you can seek a refund or replacement, unless the defect is a serious safety hazard.

Can I file a lawsuit against the manufacturer?

Yes, you may be able to file a lawsuit if you are unable to resolve the issue through negotiation or Lemon Law processes, especially if the defect caused injuries or financial losses.

Can I get compensation for injuries caused by a vehicle defect?

Yes, product liability laws allow victims of injuries caused by defective vehicles or parts to seek compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, lost income, and other damages.

What should I bring to my first meeting with a lawyer about a vehicle defect?

Bring all documents related to your vehicle, including purchase and warranty paperwork, repair records, recall notices, photos or videos of the defect, accident reports (if any), and details of all communications with the dealer or manufacturer.

Additional Resources

• Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (Lemon Law Unit)
• Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Recall Database
• Local legal aid societies and consumer advocacy groups
• Better Business Bureau Auto Line Arbitration Program

Next Steps

If you believe you are facing a legal issue related to a motor vehicle defect in Massachusetts, start by documenting everything. Collect all records of your vehicle purchase, defect occurrence, repair attempts, communications, and expenses. Review the Massachusetts Lemon Law and related consumer protections to understand your rights.

Consider reaching out to a legal professional with experience in motor vehicle defect law for an initial consultation. Many consumer rights attorneys offer free case evaluations. Acting promptly and with a clear account of your situation gives you the strongest chance for a successful resolution.