Why You Need to Know About Odometer Fraud Before Purchasing a Car
When purchasing a vehicle, it’s important for you to understand the potential risks involved, including odometer fraud. This deceptive practice could impact the value and reliability of the car you are considering. Many people fall victim to odometer fraud every year, but you may be able to take legal action to address it.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub is dedicated to protecting individuals from odometer fraud and addressing a wide range of traffic violation cases. With extensive experience in traffic law, Attorney Hillel Traub provides aggressive representation to ensure your rights are upheld and that fraudulent sellers are held accountable. Whether you’re dealing with odometer fraud, speeding tickets, license suspensions, or other traffic-related matters, we offer knowledgeable, personalized legal support to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
What is Odometer Fraud?
Odometer fraud occurs when a vehicle’s odometer has been tampered with to display a lower mileage than what the car has actually traveled. This fraudulent act misleads potential buyers about the true condition of the vehicle, potentially inflating its value. In many cases, unscrupulous sellers may roll back the odometer reading to make an older vehicle appear newer and less used. This manipulation can lead to significant financial loss for buyers who are unaware of the actual history of the vehicle they are purchasing.
Penalties for Odometer Fraud
Individuals found guilty of tampering with a vehicle’s odometer may face hefty fines, criminal charges, and even imprisonment. Laws regarding odometer fraud vary by state, but the intention behind these regulations is to deter such fraudulent behaviors and protect consumers like you from being misled.
In addition to legal consequences, those who commit odometer fraud can face civil liability. Victims of such fraud may be entitled to recover damages, which can include costs associated with repairs, diminished value of the vehicle, and even legal fees. The Law Offices of Hillel Traub works with odometer fraud victims so they can take action and recover compensation.
How to Detect Odometer Fraud When Buying a Car
Detecting odometer fraud requires a keen eye and a thorough investigation. One of the most effective ways to confirm the accuracy of a vehicle’s mileage is to obtain a vehicle history report, which can provide you with information about the car’s past. Look for inconsistencies between the odometer reading and the reported mileage in the history report.
Additionally, inspecting the vehicle for signs of wear and tear that do not align with the displayed mileage can also alert you to potential fraud. You should also consider having a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.
Another warning sign of possible odometer fraud is the presence of unusual wear on the pedals, steering wheel, or upholstery, which may suggest that the vehicle has been driven significantly more than what the odometer indicates.
What Happens If You Find Odometer Fraud After You Buy a Car?
If you discover odometer fraud after purchasing a vehicle, it can be a distressing situation. The first step is to gather all relevant documentation, including the vehicle history report, purchase paperwork, and any correspondence with the seller. This includes the sales contract, financing documents, and any information that the dealer provided about the car. This information will be important if you decide to take legal action against the seller to recover any damages, such as the cost of the vehicle.
You should also report the fraud to local authorities and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), as they can provide guidance on how to proceed and may initiate an investigation into the matter. Otherwise, the law enforcement in your area can investigate and take action to correct the situation. In some cases, you may be able to pursue a civil lawsuit with a skilled lawyer against the seller for damages.
Take Civil Action to Resolve the Problem With The Law Office of Hillel Traub
If you suspect that you are the victim of odometer fraud, you may be able to take legal action to recover compensation for damages that the dealership caused. Working with the right legal office can open up options for you so that you don’t have to suffer as the victim of odometer fraud.
The Law Office of Hillel Traub can review your situation and see if you have a case. Call us at (410) 580-1100 or use our contact form.