Auto Fraud Law Firm Aids West Virginia Consumers

Morgantown attorney pursues remedies for deceptive car sales practices

For most consumers, buying a car is a major investment. Learning afterwards that you’ve been swindled can be infuriating, but you have legal recourse available. West Virginia law comes down squarely on the side of the consumer in cases of alleged fraud by vehicle sellers. At Mehalic Law PLLC in Morgantown, I draw on decades of experience helping defrauded buyers get the financial compensation they deserve.

What is auto fraud?

Auto fraud occurs when a car dealer or private seller intentionally misrepresents or conceals information about a vehicle to deceive a buyer. Fraudulent practices may induce a buyer to:

• Purchase a defective vehicle
• Pay more than a vehicle is worth
• Agree to unfair financial terms hidden in a contract

In West Virginia, auto fraud violates the West Virginia Consumer Credit and Protection Act, which prohibits unfair or deceptive practices. The law gives remedies to victims who suffer significant harm, including repair bills or loan payments for a misrepresented vehicle.

Common types of auto fraud

Auto fraud can take many forms, such as the following: 

• Odometer fraud — The seller rolls back a vehicle’s mileage to inflate its value.
• Title washing — A salvaged or flood-damaged car is presented as clean, with its defects hidden. 
• Misrepresenting a vehicle’s history — A seller conceals prior accidents, major repairs and mechanical issues. 
• Bait and switch tactics — A dealer advertises low prices to lure buyers, only to push them to purchase more expensive models or to add hidden fees. 
• Financing scams — A dealer sets inflated interest rates or imposes unnecessary add-ons to credit terms.

In addition, lemon law violations can occur, in which dealers sell vehicles with persistent defects without full disclosure. 

Consumer rights after suffering auto fraud

West Virginia residents harmed by auto fraud have legal remedies. The state’s Consumer Credit and Protection Act allows victims to obtain refunds, costs of repairs and other compensation. Federal laws, such as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, may apply to defective vehicles sold with warranties. Consumers can demand full disclosure of a vehicle’s history, including prior damage or repairs, and have the right to cancel certain contracts within a cooling-off period. If a dealer fails to honor warranties or misrepresents financing terms, victims can pursue claims for compensation. Reporting fraud to the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office can also trigger investigations.

Benefits of seeking legal counsel

Turning to a highly trained, experienced professional can maximize your recovery while relieving your stress and anxiety. As a veteran West Virginia consumer protection lawyer, I am fully familiar with state and federal consumer laws. I can evaluate the specifics of your case, identifying such violations as deceptive advertising or contract fraud. I will gather vehicle history reports, professional valuations and other evidence. I will negotiate with dealers for refunds, loan adjustments and/or costs of repairs. If necessary, I will file suit to seek fair compensation for financial losses and for emotional distress. 

Contact a consumer protection lawyer in Morgantown

Mehalic Law PLLC in Morgantown helps West Virginia residents pursue legal remedies for auto fraud. Call 304-873-9186 to schedule a consultation or contact me online.