LEMON LAW FOR BOATS

Boat Lemon Law LA

Lemon Law information

Owning your own boat or jet ski might seem like a great source of recreation. But what happens when you find yourself dealing with recurring repairs?

The California Lemon Law protects consumers from defective vehicles, especially when these defects compromise their safety and ability to use the vehicle. The laws that protect you from defective vehicles on the road also apply to boats and watercraft.

If you believe you’ve purchased a “lemon”, the team at Alpha Law Firm is here for you. We can help you sort through issues related to the boat Lemon Law and explain what options you have to get the justice and financial compensation that you deserve.

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Are Boats Covered Under California Lemon Law?

The California Lemon Law doesn’t just apply to vehicles on land. Boats and watercraft are also subject to laws that protect consumers from lemon purchases that demand frequent repairs or present safety hazards.

Types of Boats Covered by the Lemon Law

We’re actually using the term “boat” very loosely. California Lemon Law applies to any watercraft, including:
Lemon Law CA

Motorboats

Fishing Boat Lemon Law

Fishing Boats

Sail Boat Lemon Law

Sail Boats

Speed Boat Lemon Law

Speed Boats

Catamaran Lemon Law

Catamarans

Yachts Lemon Law

Yachts

Jet Ski Lemon Law

Jet Ski

Notice that lemon laws apply even to watercraft vehicles that don’t have motors. If you’re the unhappy owner of a lemon, you have rights.

The Boat Lemon Law is not restricted by manufacturer, either, though each manufacturer’s warranty may have specific stipulations that demand careful attention.

How Do I Know Whether My Boat is a Lemon?

California Lemon Law requires that the manufacturer reimburse you for the cost of repairing or replacing your boat. But before your boat can be classified as a lemon, certain criteria must be met:
  • You must own or lease your boat
  • Your boat must be under warranty
  • Your boat’s defects must be covered by the warranty
  • The boat’s defects must affect its use, value, or safety
  • You have brought your boat in for multiple repairs 
  • The defects must recur despite repair
  • Your boat’s defects must not be the result of an accident or negligence
Boat Lemon Law Los Angeles
You can protect yourself against purchasing a lemon by buying from a reputable seller. But sometimes, a watercraft can have manufacturer’s defects that impact its use and compromise your safety. If you’ve been sold a lemon, you can take appropriate action.

What Do I Do if My Boat is a Lemon?

If you believe you’ve purchased a lemon, you have rights. Follow these steps:

Stop Using Your Boat

A recurring defect in your watercraft can jeopardize your safety, as well as the safety of any of your passengers. This is especially true of watercraft designed to go out onto open water where operators can be more vulnerable to changes in weather patterns or have difficulty navigating back to shore.

Locate Your Bill of Sale

California Lemon Law applies to vehicles that you own or lease. Having a copy of your bill of sale will prove that you own or lease the vehicle in question.

Consult Your Warranty

Next, check your manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty will indicate whether the problem is covered or not. Unfortunately, if the defect is not covered by this warranty, your options may be limited. But if the defect is covered under warranty, you can take advantage of the California Lemon Law.

Keep Detailed Records

You can improve your case dramatically by keeping detailed records of all repair work that has been done. Make sure to note the date and nature of each repair. You should also record any notes regarding conversations you have with your mechanic or the boat’s manufacturer. If you have received emails or other forms of written correspondence from your mechanic or the manufacturer, this can also be used to help your case.

Contact Your Manufacturer

If you haven’t already done so, consult your watercraft’s manufacturer directly. They may already be aware of safety or mechanical defects and be willing to work with you to avoid any legal action. If they request copies of your bill of sale or repair records, make sure to keep the originals for your own use.

Seek Legal Advice

Unfortunately, some manufacturers may fight you on your lemon claim. If that happens, you may need to take legal action. An attorney specializing in boat Lemon Law can review your case, including any documentation you present, and offer input regarding your legal options.

Is There a Lemon Law Attorney Near Me?

Thankfully, Alpha Law Firm is here to help when you’re stuck with a lemon. Your boat’s defects aren’t going away. Receive the justice and compensation you deserve by contacting our team today.

Fill out an intake form today or give us a call at (323)51-LEMON (53666).

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