Houston Lemon Law Attorney
When you purchase a new or used vehicle, you expect it to function properly and reliably. However, sometimes vehicles turn out to be defective or experience recurring issues that cannot be resolved. These problematic vehicles are often referred to as "lemons." If you find yourself burdened with a lemon, you have legal recourse under Texas Lemon Law.
Having handled numerous lemon law cases, I can assist you in navigating the legal system to achieve a favorable outcome. At Tabak Law Firm, I am committed to assessing the merits of your case and providing straightforward advice. My goal as your lemon law attorney is to resolve your case as soon as possible, saving you time and money. I am ready to take on a fight, but will never drag my clients through an unwinnable battle.
You have options, and I will make sure you fully understand the benefits and risks of each. Contact my Houston firm today for a free consultation to learn more about how I can help with your lemon law case.
What Does Texas Lemon Law Cover?
New vehicles like cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, ATVs, motor homes, towable RVs, and neighborhood electric vehicles are covered by the manufacturer’s written warranty if they develop a defect. Demonstrator vehicles that haven't been titled are also considered new.
However, the law does not cover repossessed vehicles, non-travel trailers, boats, or farm equipment. Minor issues that don't significantly affect the vehicle's use or value, like small rattles or radio static, are not covered either.
Your used vehicle may be covered under current state laws. If your used vehicle is still covered by the manufacturer’s original warranty (not an extended service contract), or if you reported a defect to the dealer while it was under the original warranty and the problem persists, Texas law might help you get it repaired.
How Do I Know If My Vehicle Is a Lemon?
If you suspect that you've purchased a lemon, it's crucial to take action promptly. Not only is the inconvenience of a faulty vehicle frustrating, but it can also lead to significant financial losses.
The vehicle must meet all of the following conditions:
The vehicle has a significant manufacturing defect.
The defect is covered under the manufacturer’s written warranty.
The owner reports the defect to the dealer or manufacturer within the warranty period.
The owner allows the dealer a reasonable number of attempts to repair the defect.
The owner provides the manufacturer with written notice (preferably by certified mail) of the defect and at least one opportunity to fix it.
The defect persists, substantially impairing the vehicle’s use or market value, or creating a serious safety hazard.
Speaking with a Houston lemon law attorney as soon as you suspect an issue can help protect your rights.
Were You Dealt a Lemon?
Schedule a Free ConsultationProtecting Your Rights Under Lemon Law
Anyone can find themselves with a lemon, but certain groups may be more at risk due to a lack of experience or resources.
First-time car buyers are particularly vulnerable, as they may not yet know how to identify the early signs of a defective vehicle or navigate the legal process for seeking a remedy. Individuals who purchase used vehicles from private sellers may be at higher risk, as they might not have access to the same level of warranty protection and recourse as with a new car purchase.
Regardless of your situation, if you believe you have purchased a lemon, consulting with an experienced lemon law attorney is essential to protect your rights and seek justice.
Under both federal and state laws, manufacturers and dealerships are required to uphold the terms of the vehicle's warranty and provide a remedy for substantial defects.
To protect yourself, always document all repair attempts and maintain detailed records of your interactions with the service department. This documentation will be invaluable if you need to pursue a lemon law claim.
Consulting with a knowledgeable car dealer fraud attorney can provide the legal guidance needed to effectively navigate your case and hold the responsible parties accountable. At Tabak Law Firm, I am dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the justice you deserve.
Understanding Damages in a Lemon Law Case
When pursuing a lemon law case, understanding the types of damages that can be recovered is essential. The primary goal of lemon law is to make the consumer whole by compensating for the issues caused by a defective vehicle. Here are the key types of damages you may be entitled to recover:
Replacement or refund: If a replacement is chosen, it should be a new vehicle of the same make, model, and specifications as the defective one. Alternatively, you may be eligible for a full refund, including the vehicle’s purchase price, taxes, registration fees, and any other out-of-pocket expenses related to the defect.
Cost of repairs: You may be entitled to recover the costs associated with multiple repair attempts if the vehicle was continually serviced to address the defect. This includes both parts and labor expenses incurred while trying to resolve the issues under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Diminished value: Even after repairs, a vehicle that had substantial defects may experience a diminished market value. In such cases, you can recover the difference between the car's value had it been defect-free and its actual value given the history of problems.
Incidental and consequential damages: These damages cover out-of-pocket expenses that are a direct result of having a lemon vehicle. This can include towing costs, rental car fees, and any other expenses that were necessary because your vehicle was unusable.
Legal fees: The Texas Lemon Law allows for the recovery of reasonable attorney fees. This is designed to ensure that consumers have the best possible legal representation without worrying about prohibitive costs.
Understanding the range of possible damages is critical for achieving a favorable outcome. At Tabak Law Firm, I strive to maximize the compensation our clients receive and guide them through every step of the legal process. If you believe you have purchased a lemon, contact me today to start exploring your legal options.
Representation for Individuals and Businesses
Defective vehicles can affect not only individual consumers but also businesses that rely on their vehicles for everyday operations. My practice extends comprehensive legal services to both individuals and businesses facing lemon law issues, ensuring that all clients receive the guidance and advocacy they deserve.
For my individual clients, I provide personalized legal representation focused on the unique circumstances of their cases. From initial consultation to resolution, I offer straightforward advice and tenacious advocacy to help individuals recover the compensation they're entitled to. Whether it’s assisting a first-time car buyer or someone dealing with a persistent vehicle problem, my approach is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome as soon as possible.
Businesses often rely on a fleet of vehicles to operate smoothly. When these vehicles turn out to be lemons, it can disrupt operations, affect revenue, and lead to significant financial losses. I represent businesses of all sizes, helping them minimize any downtime and financial impact. I provide detailed case assessments, strategic advice, and aggressive representation in court or negotiations with the aim of ensuring companies are compensated for defective vehicles.
Lemon Law Attorney in Houston, Texas
At Tabak Law Firm, I am dedicated to helping you recover the damages you deserve and holding the responsible parties accountable. My office is located in Houston, Texas, and I serve clients throughout the surrounding areas, including Richmond, Katy, Cypress, Spring, Humble, Louetta, Howellville, and beyond. Call me today to set up a free consultation.