Business Vehicles — Lemon Law in Nebraska

Nebraska Lemon Law covers business' new passenger vehicles, SUVs, vans, and trucks that are purchased in Nebraska. In order to be considered a "lemon," the vehicle 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 the expiration of the warranty (whichever period ends first)
• Has been taken in four times for the same problem or has been out of service for a cumulative total of 40 business days
• The manufacturer or dealer has been notified in writing of the defect and has been given a final (the fourth) opportunity to repair it
• The owner has participated in the manufacturer's informal arbitration program, if one exists

Under Nebraska Lemon Law, after three repair attempts, you must notify the manufacturer in writing of the problem with your vehicle and give them one final opportunity to repair it. Sample demand letter.

If the problem still isn't fixed, you must participate in the manufacturer's informal dispute resolution process (if one exists) before you are eligible to file a Lemon Law claim in court. A decision must be made within 40 days of presenting your case to the arbitrator.

Nebraska Lemon Law provides several options for a successful Lemon Law claimant. First, you may be awarded a replacement vehicle of the same year, make, and model. You may also qualify for a monetary award, which can include:

• The full purchase price
• Sales tax
• License fees
• Registration fees
• Attorney's fees

The amount of the monetary reward may be reduced by a deduction for your use of the vehicle.

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.