New Car Buyer Watch List: Short Claims Periods

If your new year means its time for a new car, you may be tempted to sign your purchase agreement quickly and get on the road. But new car buyers need to be careful what they sign. A new car purchase agreement may likely include a short claims period that could cut off your rights.

Lemon Law Attorney Dani Liblang Named a Notable Woman Lawyer by Crain’s Detroit

Attorney Dani Liblang of The Liblang Law Firm, PC, has been named a Notable Woman Lawyer by Crain’s Detroit Business. With over 35 years of lemon law experience, Liblang is an advocate for consumer rights against auto manufacturers and dealerships.

How Much Can You Get in Auto Insurance Benefits After an Auto Accident?

After a serious auto accident, paying your medical bills and making ends meet can be challenging. You need auto insurance benefits to cover everything from your hospital bill to your mortgage payment. Find out how much in auto insurance benefits you are entitled to, and how your policy limits can affect your claims.

Subprime Auto Loan Delinquencies on the Rise, New York Fed Says

The U.S. economy is up. But so are unpaid subprime auto loan delinquencies, according to a recent study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Tighter bank restrictions on auto loans and looser regulations on the subprime auto loan industry are delivering a one-two punch to low-income borrowers, burying them under mountains of debt.

"US Pilot Program Targets Unfixed Recalls"

Does your vehicle have a recall issued for it? One in four vehicles on American roads today do. Now a US pilot program in Maryland is targeting those unfixed recalls by providing additional notices to drivers. Find out if you are affected, and what to do if you have unfixed recalls on your vehicle.

Assembly Line Student Loan Debt Collections Called Into Question

Student loan debt collection lawsuits crowd local courtrooms across the country. But when mega-firms use assembly line tactics to push cases into court, mistakes happen. That can leave well-meaning borrowers at a loss to fight back against claims they don’t even owe. Now the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has stepped in, but a settlement designed to protect consumers could fall apart in court.

What to Expect In Your Toxic Tort Personal Injury Lawsuit

Your lawyer has told your that you suffered something called a “toxic tort”. Find out what that means, and what you can expect in your toxic tort personal injury lawsuit.

Don’t Fall for Yo-Yo Financing Schemes: Know the Warning Signs

If you ever listen to the radio, you have probably heard car dealership commercials for “0% financing” or “sign and drive” events. For poor consumers or those with bad credit, these deals can seem too good to be true. They often are. Learn what to watch for to avoid yo-yo financing schemes and make sure you don’t lose that new car.

Senate Undercuts Consumer Protection Rules Against Mandatory Arbitration

For years, consumers have used class action lawsuits to fight back against large corporations, banks, and predatory lenders who break the law. But the U.S. Senate recently passed a bill restoring the mandatory arbitration clauses in most consumer contracts, creating obstacles for consumer protection efforts and cutting off access to the courts.

Is Michigan’s Opioid Crisis a Consumer Protection Problem?

The number of deaths related to overuse of narcotic painkillers are skyrocketing in Michigan, and across the United States. But could the opioid crisis really come down to a consumer protection problem? The county executives of Oakland and Wayne Counties think so, and they’re taking their theory to court.

NHTSA Self-Driving Vehicle Regulations Put Passenger Safety in Auto-Makers’ Hands

The push to create the first completely self-driving vehicle is getting intense. Auto makers are already testing prototypes in Michigan and across the country. This has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to issue revised safety guidelines for the industry. But the revisions take away significant protections for consumers and passengers.

Who Pays in a Slip and Fall Accident?

When you take a fall on a wet floor or a patch of ice, it can cause serious injury and cost quite a bit in medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Where can you turn to be compensated for those injuries? Who pays in a slip and fall accident?

What to Do if Your Vehicle Gets Repossessed

When consumers fall behind on their auto loans, they often come to fear that the vehicle will be repossessed. But just because someone takes your car doesn’t mean it is the end of the story. Find out what to do if your vehicle gets repossessed.

When Is a Class Action Lawsuit a Bad Idea?

Who hasn’t gotten a letter in the mail notifying them they were entitled to a share of a class action lawsuit? Often these notices come out of the blue, addressing problems you didn’t even know you had. But a bad class action lawsuit can actually hurt your rights. Find out why doing nothing in a class action lawsuit could a bad idea, and what you can do instead.

The Equifax Breach: What You Should Do To Protect Your Identity

Earlier this month the credit-checking company Equifax announced a data breach that effective over 143 million consumers. That’s nearly half of the U.S. adult population. Find out what happened, why you should care, and what you can do to protect your identity.

Michigan Bill Improves Consumer Protections in No-Fault Law

The Michigan No-Fault Act, which controls auto insurance, has been up for review and possible reform for years. Past bills have unsuccessfully tried to impose caps and restrictions on injured motorists seeking coverage. Now a new proposal takes no-fault reform in a new direction: consumer protection.

Houston Tropical Storm Harvey Will Drown Market With Deceptive Flood Cars

 

As waters rise following Tropical Storm Harvey, the used car market will soon be swamped by flood cars with washed titles. Find out why these cheap cars aren’t worth the money.

Why You Should Opt Out of the Ford Focus / Fiesta Class Action

The rights of 1.5 million Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta owners and lessees are about to be affected by a class action settlement in California. It could cut Ford owners off from $1,000s in damages, attorney fees, and costs. Find out why you should opt out of the Ford Focus / Fiesta Class Action before the September 5, 2017 deadline.

Ford Fusion, Fiesta Class Action Deadline: Sept. 5

Do you have a Ford Fusion or Ford Fiesta? Have you been having trouble with your PowerShift transmission? You may be under the gun to get proper compensation for this important vehicle defect.

Stranded Brides and Their Consumer Protection Options

Last month, nationwide bridal salon Alfred Angelo closed its doors unexpectedly upon filing for bankruptcy. Now it appears these brides and bridesmaids won’t get their dresses. Do stranded brides have any Consumer Protection options?

Are Smart Bikes the Answer to Self-Driving Cars?

Self-driving cars will be hitting the roads in Michigan sooner than you may think. But will they be safe for cyclists? One scientist says the answer may be smart bikes that talk directly to the autonomous vehicles.

Can You Be Charged for Canceling a Gym Membership?

For some Michigan residents, a gym membership can be the gift that keeps on giving. But if you have to move, cut costs, or simply change gyms it can sometimes be difficult to cancel that obligation. Gyms can pressure members to renew or modify their agreements, and even threaten cancellation fees or penalties. But the Michigan Attorney General says sometimes these tactics can cross the line of consumer protection laws.

New Rule Protects Consumers’ Right to Class Action Lawsuits

In the face of political opposition, the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau announced a new rule protecting consumers’ right to join class action lawsuits. The rule would keep banks and credit card companies from using arbitration clauses to keep small claims out of court.

Did an IRS Contractor Violate Consumer Protection Laws?

This year, the IRS has begun to outsource its tax debt collections to private contractors. But the National Taxpayer Advocate and several senators are asking whether one IRS contractor’s debt collection methods violate federal consumer protection laws.

Are Used Tires Worth the Risk?

With the rising costs of auto maintenance, many Michigan residents are turning to used tires to save some money. But when it comes to used tires, as well as wheels and rims, what you don’t know could put you at risk.

Injured Unloading Your Car? Michigan Supreme Court Weighs In on Coverage

Not all car accidents happen on the road. Some people are seriously injured by accidents involving parked motor vehicles. But will your PIP insurance pay for that? The Michigan Supreme Court recently weighed in on what happens when you are injured unloading your car.

Car Repossessed? Watch Out for Debt Collectors

If you have fallen behind on your auto loan, you could end up having your car repossessed. You may assume that will be the end of your problems. But in fact, debt collectors could force you to pay thousands more on a car you no longer own.

5 Michigan Consumer Protection Laws that Protect You and Your Car

 

Purchasing a new or used vehicle is a big deal. So how do you know the dealership is treating you right? Here are 5 Michigan consumer protection laws that protect you and your car.

Michigan Court Decision Puts Patients In the Middle

After an auto accident the last thing an injured motorist wants to think about is medical bills. The Michigan No Fault Act is supposed to ensure they are paid, but a new Michigan Supreme Court decision could put patients in the middle between medical providers and their money.

Blue Water Bridge Injury Case Dies Over Deadlines

For many people, filing paperwork isn’t at the top of their list after a serious personal injury accident. But a recent Michigan Court of Appeals decision in a Blue Water Bridge injury case shows how important it is to get notices filed before the state-imposed deadlines expire, especially when the government gets involved.

Financial CHOICE Act Splits Michigan Representatives

Since 2010, the Dodd-Frank Act and the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau have protected American consumers from unfair financial practices. But now the Financial CHOICE Act could, in President Trump’s words, be a “major haircut” to the organization and its ability to protect citizens.

When No Fault Auto Insurance Is Not Enough

Michigan’s no-fault auto insurance is designed to cover your medical expenses after a car crash. But it doesn’t cover everything. Find out what you can do when no-fault auto insurance is not enough.

Uber’s Greyball Targeted by Justice Department

Uber, the popular ride-sharing app, puts users worldwide in touch with everyday drivers looking to make some money. But the City of Portland and the U.S. Justice Department say the company’s “Greyball” software might have crossed a line, singling out regulators and taking them on a different kind of ride.

Collections Lawsuit? A Lawyer Helps

No one wants to go to court to avoid paying creditors. Unfortunately, thousands of people every year face collections lawsuits. Find out what to expect, and what an attorney can do to help.

Demand Letters Are Lead-Ins to Court

If you receive a demand letter from a collections agency, sometimes also called a validation notice, it is the first sign that you may be headed to court. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), before a creditor can file a collections lawsuit against you it must first send you a notice that states:

• The amount you owe
• The name of the creditor
• That you have 30 days to dispute the debt or the collector has the right to assume it is valid
• That if you dispute the debt in writing within 30 days you are entitled to receive a verification of the debt and its amount
• That you are entitled to the name and address of the original creditor upon request during that initial 30 days

If you receive this letter, you should contact a collections defense attorney right away. If you wait for the 30 days to go by you could be giving up valid legal defenses.

Inability to Pay Is Not a Defense

Many people choose to represent themselves in collections lawsuits based on their lack of available funds to pay their debts. There are many defenses to a collections lawsuit, but inability to pay is not one of them. If all you have to say is that you don’t have the money to pay, you will most likely end up with a judgment against you.

Instead of going in with nothing but your empty pockets, you should speak to an experienced debtor’s rights attorney before appearing in court. Many creditors violate laws and court rules in attempts to get paid. A lawyer can help you prove to the court:

• That the debt is not yours
• That the amount is wrong
• That interest has been applied improperly
• That you did not receive proper notice of the debt or the lawsuit
• That the collections agency cannot prove the alleged debt exists
• That the collections agency violated the law by harassing you for payment
• Other legal defenses based on your specific facts

Many defenses must be raised within the first few weeks of a collections lawsuit. They must be included in a formal “Answer to Complaint” that is filed with the court. It is important that you talk to a collections defense attorney right away to preserve these defenses and make the best of a bad situation. 

Dani K. Liblang, at The Liblang Law Firm, PC, in Birmingham, Michigan, has been representing debtors in collections lawsuits for over 30 years. She knows how to make the facts work for you. At the first sign that you are headed to court, contact The Liblang Law Firm, PC, for a free consultation.

Who Pays Your Personal Injury Lawyer After an Auto Accident?

The auto insurance company is refusing to pay your medical bills and collections companies are calling you directly. The last thing you want to do is pay more money to an attorney to get help. The good news is that in many cases, you aren’t the one that pays your personal injury lawyer after an auto accident.

Michigan Supreme Court Strikes Down Slip and Fall Case

Just as Michigan was ready to put winter in its rear-view mirror, a recent order from the Michigan Supreme Court brought ice and snow back into focus.

Black Ice Causes Slip and Fall Accident

Marguerite Ragnoli was walking in the parking lot at North Oakland-North Macomb Imaging, Inc. The sun had gone down, but the lights in the parking lot hadn’t come on yet. Temperatures hovered around freezing, and a heap of snow was piled in the parking lot. It was warm enough that the pavement was wet and the snow was melting. Ragnoli slipped on a patch of black ice and fell, suffering serious injuries. She sued North Oakland-North Macomb Imaging, Inc., based on premises liability.

Premises Liability, Slip and Fall, and Icy Weather

When property owners invite people onto their property, they are required to take reasonable care to protect them from dangerous conditions causing an unreasonable risk of harm. But where those dangers are “open and obvious” it is up to the visitor, not the property owner to avoid the danger.
“Open and obvious” means that an average person would have discovered the danger through a casual inspection. When it comes to ice and snow, the question of an open and obvious risk depends on the surrounding weather conditions. Where wintry conditions exist, individuals are generally put on notice of the risk of ice and snow. They walk at their own risk.

Court of Appeals Finds Special Aspects to Parking Lot

Even when wintry conditions abound, a premises liability lawsuit can survive if certain “special aspects to the condition” exist. In Ragnoli’s case, last year the Michigan Court of Appeals found that the darkness of the parking lot created just such a special aspect. The court found that a question of fact existed as to whether “a lack of lighting in the parking lot prevented Marguerite from seeing the ice.”

Michigan Supreme Court Strikes Down Slip and Fall Case

Recently, the Michigan Supreme Court issued an order (in lieu of granting leave to appeal) overturning the Court of Appeal’s decision. The Court said:

“[N]otwithstanding the low lighting in the parking lot, the presence of wintery weather conditions and of ice on the ground elsewhere on the premises rendered the risk of a black ice patch ‘open and obvious such that a reasonably prudent person would foresee the danger’ of slipping and falling in the parking lot.”

The Supreme Court order solidified the “open and obvious” defense to a premises liability lawsuit, making it very hard for plaintiffs to collect benefits for slip and fall cases based on ice and snow. It takes an experienced personal injury attorney like Dani K. Liblang of The Liblang Law Office, PC, in Birmingham, Michigan, to identify winning legal theories and collect benefits for plaintiffs’ injuries. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact The Liblang Law Office, PC, to find out if you have a case.

Buying a Used Car “As Is”? Read This First

When money is tight, buying a used car “as is” may be tempting. But is it worth the risk? Find out what you are giving up before your sign the title.

Fatal Good Samaritans Accident Raises Questions

A teen driver recently hit two Good Samaritans who were assisting injured motorists. The crash raises questions about whether alcohol or distracted driving was involved, and who is to blame for the damages.

Liblang Law Firm, PC, Wins on Hyundai Lemon Law Lawsuit

What would you do if your brand new car went to the shop 21 times in just a few years? For one Liblang Law Firm, PC, client, that red flag led to a winning lemon law lawsuit.

1 in 4 U.S. Vehicles Subject to Recall, Study Finds

Is the car you are driving safe? If yours is one of the 63 million vehicles subject to recall across the country, you and your family could be taking an unnecessary risk.

5 Hour Energy Used Deceptive Ads, Court Says

In the battle for energizing American citizens, advertising claims have ranged from the silly (Red Bull “gives you wings”) to the scientific. But a Washington state court recently ruled that 5 Hour Energy crossed the line when it made claims about the medical benefits of its product.

Top 10 Consumer Protection Complaints in Michigan for 2016

Consumer protection covers a wide variety of state and federal complaints. Find out what the top 10 consumer protection complaints in Michigan were in 2016, and how the state stacks up to the rest of the country.

Do You Really Own Your Used Car?

You go to the used car lot, sign a contract, and drive away with a new-to-you vehicle. You own it, right? Wrong. Find out what happens when the dealership doesn’t transfer title to your used car.

The Yahoo Email Hack You Need to Know About

Yahoo! seems to constantly coming up in the news, and not in a good way. But the latest Yahoo email hack is different, and what you don’t know could hurt you.

Beyond Lemon Law: Obstacles to Settlement

Veteran lemon law lawyer Dani K. Liblang recently spoke at the Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Find out what she says are the biggest obstacles to settlement in a lemon law case.

Beyond Lemon Law: Settling Lemon Law Cases

Veteran lemon law lawyer Dani K. Liblang recently spoke at the Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Find out what she believes makes an auto defect claim ripe for settlement.

Beyond Lemon Law: Depositions & Vehicle Inspections

Veteran lemon law lawyer Dani K. Liblang recently spoke at the Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Find out how plaintiffs’ depositions and vehicle inspections can make or break your case.

Beyond Lemon Law: What Makes a Strong Case

 
Veteran lemon law lawyer Dani K. Liblang recently spoke at the Institute of Continuing Legal Education. Find out what she says makes a strong lemon law claim.

Attorney Dani K. Liblang Goes Beyond Lemon Law with the Institute of Continuing Legal Education

There are a lot of lawyers out there, but not all of them can help you when your car doesn’t live up to the hype. When a persistent problem sends you back to the dealership for a 4^th time, you need a lemon law expert. Attorney Dani K. Liblang of The Liblang Law Firm, P.C., was recently asked to speak on the issue by the Institute of Continuing Legal Education.

Volkswagen Settles Consumer Fraud Claims with Justice Department, EPA

Auto manufacturer Volkswagen has settled criminal and civil charges by the Justice Department and Environmental Protection Administration. The company has agreed to pay $4.3 billion in penalties and several employees face individual charges as a result of a decade-long emissions scandal.

Resolved to Join a Gym in 2017? Read This First

Every year, thousands of people commit to get healthy in the new year. Maybe you resolved to join a gym or workout more in 2017. If you did, you make sure you do your research, or you could be facing a consumer protection disaster.

Broken Pavement Could Not Matter Under New Law

When you trip on broken pavement sometimes it’s just a scraped knee. But other times a poorly maintained sidewalk can cause serious injuries. When that happens you need to know there is somewhere you can turn to recover your damages. But a new law could stand between personal injury plaintiffs and government defendants.