Can You Sue the Manufacturer for an Unroadworthy Car?
As a car enthusiast, you likely care deeply about the quality and safety standards of the vehicles you purchase. However, what happens when you buy a car and find out it's unroadworthy? Can you sue the manufacturer for selling you a defective vehicle?
Understanding Unroadworthy Cars
Highly unlikely, a new car is unroadworthy. Manufacturers generally ensure their vehicles meet all necessary safety and legal standards before release. For used cars, there is typically a roadworthy certificate provided to verify that the vehicle is safe to drive. In either scenario, it's important to know that most cars are not purchased directly from manufacturers, but through dealerships. This means that while you might face challenges proving the manufacturer's direct fault, you still have potential legal grounds to pursue.
Suing versus Collecting
The ability to sue does not guarantee success or the ability to collect. In cases where a repair shop (or even a dealer) identifies an issue with your car, they are not allowed to hold your car as a form of debt collection. In the past, when I've come across unroadworthy vehicles, I have required customers to sign a disclaimer acknowledging the risks and informing them that I would not allow the car to be driven from the lot. If the customer couldn't afford a tow, I ensured they wouldn't face mounting debts.
Instead of wasting thousands on legal fees, a quick tow can be the more practical solution. This has proven to be a successful approach in many situations. However, it's crucial to prioritize the safety of everyone involved and avoid driving an unroadworthy car that poses a risk to yourself and others.
Manufacturer Responsibilities and Legal Rights
When it comes to selling a defective car, manufacturers have a legal obligation to ensure their products meet certain standards. If a manufacturer sells a defective car, you do have strong rights. In the case of an injury caused by an unroadworthy vehicle, you have even stronger grounds for filing a lawsuit. These rights are particularly significant if you've bought from a manufacturer rather than a private seller.
To protect your interests, you should first address the issue directly with the car dealer from whom you purchased the vehicle. If it's a used car, you should also check its history online to ensure you're making an informed decision. Failing to address these issues and driving an unroadworthy car is not only reckless but also potentially illegal, putting lives at risk.
Lastly, if necessary, it's recommended to consult with a lawyer to explore your legal options. Don't let this issue go unresolved. Your safety and the safety of others are paramount, and taking action can help ensure you get the justice you deserve.