Best Motor Vehicle Defect Lawyers in Tempe

About Motor Vehicle Defect Law in Tempe, United States

Motor vehicle defect law focuses on the legal responsibility manufacturers, dealerships, and sometimes repair shops have for producing or selling vehicles with defects that could make them unsafe to drive. In Tempe, Arizona, motor vehicle defect law covers both new and used cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Defects may involve design flaws, manufacturing errors, or insufficient warnings about potential dangers. These issues can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Understanding your rights as a consumer is important if you suspect your vehicle has a defect affecting safety, performance, or value.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Working with a lawyer is often crucial in the following situations:

• Your vehicle has a recurring problem despite multiple repair attempts
• You were involved in an accident caused by a potential defect in your car or someone else’s vehicle
• The manufacturer or dealer refuses to honor a warranty or recall
• You have suffered injuries or financial losses due to a vehicle defect
• There is a dispute over who is responsible for the defect, for example, between the manufacturer and a parts supplier
• You need help understanding your rights under Arizona’s "lemon law" or product liability laws

An attorney experienced in motor vehicle defect cases can help you gather evidence, negotiate with manufacturers, and pursue compensation through settlement or court.

Local Laws Overview

Arizona statutes provide several protections and remedies for consumers facing motor vehicle defects. Key aspects include:

• Arizona Lemon Law: Applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in Arizona. Consumers have rights if a significant defect cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts within twenty-four months or twenty-four thousand miles.
• Implied Warranty of Merchantability: All vehicles sold in Tempe must meet minimum standards for safety and performance.
• Vehicle Recalls: Manufacturers are required to notify owners of safety-related defects and provide free repairs. Arizona enforces compliance with federal recall laws.
• Product Liability: If a design or manufacturing defect causes injury, victims may seek compensation for damages under Arizona’s product liability laws.
• Used Car Protections: While the lemon law applies to used vehicles only in limited circumstances, other consumer protection laws may still provide remedies against dealerships who misrepresent vehicle conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a motor vehicle defect?

A motor vehicle defect is a flaw in the design, manufacture, or labeling of a vehicle or any of its parts that makes it unsafe, unreliable, or not perform as intended.

What is the Arizona Lemon Law?

The Arizona Lemon Law protects buyers of new vehicles with recurring significant defects. If the dealer cannot repair the problem after a reasonable number of tries during the warranty period, the buyer may be entitled to a refund or replacement.

Does the Lemon Law cover used cars in Tempe?

Generally, the Arizona Lemon Law applies to new vehicles. It may cover certain used vehicles that are still under their original manufacturer warranty. Other consumer protections may apply for older used cars.

What should I do if I discover a defect in my vehicle?

Report the issue to the manufacturer or dealership in writing and request repairs. Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications. If the problem is not resolved, consult an attorney.

Can I sue the manufacturer for a defective vehicle?

Yes, if a defect has caused injury, property damage, or if the manufacturer refuses to honor a warranty or recall, you can pursue legal action for compensation or a remedy through Arizona product liability laws.

What is a recall and how do I know if my vehicle is affected?

A recall is when a manufacturer identifies a safety defect and offers free repairs. You can check for recalls by providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the manufacturer.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a motor vehicle defect?

Arizona’s statute of limitations for product liability claims is generally two years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect. Consult a lawyer to ensure you meet all deadlines.

Do I need to have all repairs done at the dealership?

For warranty and lemon law purposes, it is often recommended to use authorized dealerships for repairs, as this creates a clear record. However, independent repair can sometimes be acceptable.

What evidence should I gather in a defect case?

Collect repair invoices, written communications with the manufacturer or dealer, photos or videos of the defect, and documentation of any accidents or injuries related to the issue.

Can I recover costs beyond repair, such as medical expenses or lost wages?

Yes, if a defect caused an accident leading to injury or other losses, you may claim compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Additional Resources

• Arizona Attorney General’s Office Consumer Protection Division
• Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• Arizona Lemon Law information from the Arizona Revised Statutes
• Local consumer advocacy organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau Serving the Pacific Southwest
• Tempe city legal aid clinics for low-income residents

Next Steps

If you believe you are dealing with a motor vehicle defect, follow these steps:

1. Document all issues, repairs, and communications with the manufacturer or dealer.
2. Review your warranty and recall information to understand your rights.
3. Contact a lawyer in Tempe who has experience with motor vehicle defect and consumer protection laws for an initial consultation.
4. Consider submitting a complaint to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration if you suspect a widespread problem.
5. Do not ignore vehicle defects, especially if they pose a safety risk. Immediate action can help protect your rights and wellbeing.

Remember, legal consultation can clarify your rights and options, and experienced legal guidance can improve your chances of a successful resolution.