Each year, about 100,000 out of 17 million new vehicles turn out to be a lemon. These cars go from being an exciting new toy to a disappointing money pit for the purchaser. Thankfully, there’s help available in the form of a consumer protection attorney.
These lawyers specialize in helping consumers have a voice against a much larger adversary. If you find yourself injured in some way by a service, product, or business, then you may need to speak with a consumer protection attorney.
Consumer protection laws are in place to provide you with the ability to legally stand up for yourself, so if you find yourself in one of these situations, consider talking to a lawyer.
1. You Bought a Lemon
Contrary to popular belief, Lemon Laws only refers to specific vehicles. It empowers consumers to get a refund or replacement if the new vehicle they purchase has a major defect. You cannot simply say, “This car sucks; I want another.”
An attorney will help you follow your state’s required procedures to make a claim under this law. The attorney will also help when the dealership doesn’t want to work with you by admitting they sold you a defective car.
2. Your Property Suffered Damage
As consumers, we put a certain amount of trust in companies that manufacture products. We expect them to work as advertised and be inherently safe when used for their intended purpose. In the legal world, this is called an implied warranty.
However, it doesn’t always work out, and a product can cause damage or injury. This could be a result of the manufacturer’s negligence. Even if a manufacturer isn’t negligent, they could still be held liable for injuries their products cause.
If you suffer an injury or damage due to properly using a product, then it’s smart to consult with a consumer protection lawyer. They can review your case and determine if you have a personal property damage lawsuit.
Your attorney can advise you on who to include in your lawsuit. In many cases, you can hold the manufacturer, designer, and seller liable.
3. Debt Collectors Are Calling
If you’re struggling to repay a debt, a consumer protection attorney can help protect your best interests. Your lawyer will teach you about the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which outlines how debt collectors can go about collecting on the debt that you owe.
A lawyer should handle major financial disputes over vehicle repossessions or credit card debt. They can also help you locate credit counseling services to help you improve your financial status.
In some situations, your attorney can help you challenge a credit rejection. Lenders cannot reject you based on a protected status, such as gender, race, sexual orientation, or nationality.
A Consumer Protection Lawyer Can Help
You don’t need to have a consumer protection lawyer on speed dial. But if you find yourself in one of these situations, it’s smart to seek out this type of legal advice. Your attorney will represent your best interests, so you aren’t stuck with a dud car, debt collector harassment, or damaged personal property.
Read our other business and law-themed articles for more helpful advice like what you found in this article.
