Motorcycle Lemon Law in Alaska

New motorcycles are covered under Alaska Lemon Law. In order to be considered a lemon, a motorcycle must meet the following requirements:

• Does not conform to the manufacturer's express warranty
• Has substantial defects affecting the use, safety, or value of the vehicle
• Has manufacturer's defects that occurred during the first year from the delivery date or during the period covered by the manufacturer's express warranty (whichever period ends first)
• Has been taken in three times for the same problem or if it has been out of service for 30 business days for the same problem
• After the dealer has tried to repair the vehicle three times, the manufacturer has been notified and given an opportunity to repair the vehicle
• Is driven for personal use

Under Alaska Lemon Law, before you are eligible to file a Lemon Law claim, you must first participate in your motorcycle manufacturer's dispute resolution process (for example, arbitration, conciliation, or mediation) if the program meets the standards of Alaska's Attorney General. You must also notify the manufacturer of the problem with your motorcycle, and give the manufacturer the opportunity to fix it one last time. Sample demand letter.

Wherever you are in the Lemon Law claim process, it is generally in your best interest to have an attorney represent you. After all, vehicle manufacturers have teams of lawyers that do nothing but fight Lemon Law claims. As you consider your options, imagine the difference between going up against a team of lawyers on your own, versus having a Lemon Law attorney speak on your behalf. Also keep in mind that being represented by a Lemon Law attorney won't cost you a dime if you go to court; the law says that the car manufacturer has to pay your attorney's fees in successful Lemon Law claims.

As with other types of Lemon Law claims, organization is key to presenting a convincing case. Keep spotless records of every malfunction and problem you have had with your motorcycle since you bought it. Save all of the paperwork that you received every time you brought your motorcycle to be serviced. Catalog the days the motorcycle spent in the shop and out of your possession. Remember, the more organized your evidence is, the more likely it is that your attorney can win your case.