Buying a vehicle is a major investment of both time and money. Most people spend hours researching which car to buy and where to purchase it, aiming for the best quality available. Because of this, many consumers prefer buying from dealerships or large retailers, trusting these outlets to offer coverage if problems arise. However, if a dealer fails to properly verify vehicle details, consumers may face consequences. Recently, a North Carolina resident experienced firsthand such an issue when she learned the vehicle she had legally purchased from CarMax was actually stolen.
CarMax Stolen Car Sales
With stores in 41 states, CarMax has sold over 13 million cars and purchased over 15 million. The business depends upon buying and selling used cars that pass their quality checks. Any dealership selling used cars has a responsibility to verify key details about the vehicles. This includes their maintenance history and VIN (vehicle identification number). A North Carolina consumer purchased a used car from CarMax over 4 years ago and just recently had her car seized by the Raleigh Police Department. The police informed her that the vehicle had been stolen. In fact, the car was reportedly sold to CarMax at auction from a seller involved in a multi-state auto theft ring.
Your Consumer Rights
A car dealer is responsible for conducting due diligence checks on all vehicles. This includes ensuring that the dealer has the right to sell the car. As a consumer, you couldn’t have known the vehicle’s VIN was forged. It wouldn’t be your responsibility to verify it. If you are sold a stolen car, the seller is in violation of the warranty of the title, because the seller doesn’t have the right to sell you the vehicle. Additionally, you have recourse under state and federal laws.
The Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act (UDTPA)
The Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act (UDTPA) is a crucial consumer protection law that shields consumers from dishonest or unethical business practices. In instances where a dealership like CarMax sells a stolen vehicle, the UDTPA may provide a basis for legal claims. These claims allege a violation of the consumer’s right to honest dealings. The law allows consumers who successfully prove their claim to recover actual damages, attorneys’ fees, and treble damages (three times the amount of actual damages). Additionally, the North Carolina General Statute on Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices supports your rights on a state level.
Contact Our Consumer Protection Lawyers
If you were sold a stolen car by CarMax or another dealership, contact us today for assistance. Car dealers have a duty to ensure the legitimacy of their vehicles, and you deserve to be compensated for any wrongdoing. Our attorneys will review your case and negotiate with the negligent seller on your behalf. If necessary, we will file suit. We offer free consultations and take consumer matters on a contingency basis. That means you don’t pay unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Reach out to our dedicated legal professionals across the state at our Raleigh, Charlotte, or Fayetteville offices.
