California Motorcycle Lemon Law Attorney
Motorcycle enthusiasts in California are blessed with year-round riding weather thanks to our incredible weather here.
But what if your newly purchased motorcycle is spending more time in the repair shop than on the open road? Are there legal protections for owners of defective motorcycles?
California’s lemon law does in fact extend to motorcycles.
If you suspect that your motorcycle may be a lemon, our motorcycle lemon law attorneys are here to advocate for you and see if your case qualifies under California lemon law.
What is California’s Motorcycle Lemon Law?
The lemon law for motorcycles in California closely mirrors the lemon law for other vehicles. It holds manufacturers accountable for motorcycles that are defective while under warranty.
A motorcycle could be considered a lemon if it consistently falls short in performance and quality. Under the lemon law, manufacturers may be obligated to:
- Offer prompt and effective repair services;
- Fix your motorcycle within a reasonable number of attempts;
- Propose to replace or repurchase your motorcycle if repairs are unsuccessful; and
- Cover the attorney fees and costs incurred by the motorcycle buyer.
If a manufacturer knowingly breaches the lemon law, they may also face civil penalties.
Manufacturers are often reluctant to take these steps voluntarily. That’s where an experienced motorcycle lemon law attorney can step in to hold the manufacturer accountable and advocate for your rights.
Which Motorcycles Fall Under the Lemon Law?
California boasts one of the most robust lemon laws in the nation, and it does include motorcycles. The law applies to “new motor vehicles” primarily used for personal or family purposes, which includes motorcycles.
To be covered, the motorcycle must be street-legal, registered in California, and still under warranty. Additionally, the motorcycle must have been purchased from an authorized dealer or directly from the manufacturer. Motorcycles bought in private sales are unfortunately not covered, even if they are still under warranty.
How to Determine if Your Motorcycle is a Lemon?
Not every issue covered by the warranty makes a motorcycle a lemon. Signs that your motorcycle might be a lemon include:
- Extended stays at the repair shop (over 30 days);
- Frequent trips to the repair shop for warranty-covered repairs; or
- Being sold with significant defects.
If the manufacturer has made multiple unsuccessful repair attempts or your motorcycle has been in the shop for an extended period, you could be dealing with a lemon. However, if the issues are due to your actions, the lemon law will not apply.
Rider safety is paramount. A manufacturer’s inability to ensure your motorcycle’s safety could render it entirely unfit for use.
What Steps Should You Take if Your Motorcycle is a Suspected Lemon?
Manufacturers are generally not proactive in resolving your issues. It’s up to you to maintain records and assert your rights. Here are some proactive steps to build your case:
Monitor Your Mileage
California’s lemon law requires your motorcycle to be under warranty. Be mindful of the warranty’s mileage limit, as exceeding it will disqualify you from making a lemon law claim.
Seek Timely Repairs
You must give the manufacturer an opportunity to fix the issues. Don’t delay in taking your motorcycle to a certified mechanic or the dealer’s shop for repairs.
Document All Issues
Ensure that all the problems you’ve reported are listed on the service order before you sign it.
Maintain Comprehensive Records
Keep all documents, including receipts, invoices, and work orders, as they will be crucial for your lemon law claim.
Consult a Skilled Motorcycle Lemon Law Attorney
Navigating lemon law claims can be complex. Consult with an experienced attorney specializing in motorcycle lemon law in California. Call us at 916-672-8443.
What is the Timeframe for Filing a Lemon Law Claim in California?
You must act promptly. First, ensure all repairs are done while the warranty is still valid. Secondly, you have a four-year window from the time you discover the defect to file a claim. While this may seem like ample time, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney well before the statute of limitations expires.
Contact a California Motorcycle Lemon Law Attorney
Understanding California’s motorcycle lemon law can be a daunting task. If you believe you have a defective motorcycle that qualifies for a lemon law case, call a California Lemon Law Expert at 916-672-8443.
Contact us today for a complimentary case evaluation!
