While Hurricane Irene ravaged the East Coast, the flood-damaged vehicles left in its wake could begin popping up around the country. The Star-Ledger reported on September 13, 2011, that “this year’s supply of lemons is expected to be particularly bountiful.”

Philip Reed, senior consumer advice editor for automotive research site Edmunds.com, told the Star-Ledger that “once a damaged car goes to the salvage yard, an unscrupulous dealer might refurbish and resell it, often to an unsuspecting buyer in another state.” Moving the car to a different state and having it change hands multiple times allows a dealer to erase any record of damage, a practice otherwise called “title washing.” The Star-Ledger noted that private sellers might also try selling their vehicle, without disclosing the damage to the buyer.

Edmunds.com has cautioned buyers in all states to be on the lookout for signs of water damage in vehicles. Furthermore, the Star-Ledger also reported that with such a densely-populated region affected by the flooding, Carfax estimates the number of damaged cars that make it back into the marketplace could reach the tens of thousands.

One would hope that California’s lemon laws are strong enough to prevent any flood-damaged vehicles from being sold without full disclosure. If you suspect there was car dealer fraud involved in your last automobile purchase, our firm can help you get out of a car contract and take the dealer to task. Whether your concerns have more to do with the contract or the actual vehicle, contact one of our California lemon law attorneys today to get the dealership or manufacturer pay you the money you are rightfully owed.

Rosner, Barry & Babbitt, LLP –California lemon law lawyers