Houston Odometer Fraud Attorney

When anyone sells a vehicle, they're required to give the buyer a written statement with the car's actual mileage. Sometimes, people or dealers change the mileage on the odometer, known as a mileage rollback, to trick buyers. Rolling back the odometer can let sellers charge more than the car is really worth based on its true mileage. 

I’ve handled numerous civil proceedings involving car dealer fraud. I can help you take action against the auto dealer who sold you your car if they rolled back the odometer. My success in the courtroom has led to colleagues and other attorneys hiring me to try their cases. 

When you need an odometer fraud lawyer with a proven track record, Tabak Law Firm is up to the challenge. As your attorney, my duty is to assess the merits of your case and provide honest advice. I'm not afraid of a fight, but won't drag my clients through an unwinnable case. My aim is to always secure a favorable result as quickly as possible so that you won't have to waste your time or your money. 

There are always options, and I'll ensure you're fully aware of the benefits and risks of each one. Contact my Houston firm today to learn more about how I can help with your odometer fraud case during a free consultation. 

Do You Have an Odometer Fraud Case? 

Suspicions that you purchased a vehicle with incorrect mileage should be taken seriously. Not only is odometer fraud illegal, but it could also lead to significant financial loss for the buyer. If you suspect that you have fallen victim to odometer fraud, it is important to speak with a Houston odometer fraud attorney as soon as possible. 

The best way to determine whether or not you're a victim of odometer fraud is to examine the chain of title and check to see if the mileage matches the mileage shown on the vehicle. Other signs to look for include: 

• Excessive tire wear for the vehicle’s year or disclosed mileage can suggest that the car has traveled far more than reported. 

• Scratches in the odometer area can possibly indicate tampering. 

• Missing screws near the dashboard may indicate that the dashboard was opened to manipulate the odometer. 

• Odometer numbers that do not line up evenly can be a sign of tampering. 

• Oil change stickers that contain mileage information can be cross-referenced with the odometer reading. 

• The mileage listed on the title versus the mileage shown on the odometer can reveal discrepancies. 

• Vehicle inspection reports, including oil change reports showing the mileage on the vehicle, can provide a historical record of the vehicle’s use. 

• The CARFAX vehicle history includes odometer readings and offers a comprehensive look at the vehicle's past. 

• The title history from the Department of Motor Vehicles may reveal previous title issues or mileage inconsistencies. 

If you've purchased a vehicle that may have an altered odometer, you should consult with an experienced odometer fraud attorney. My Houston firm is here to help you recover your losses and hold the responsible party accountable.

Protecting Your Rights as a Buyer

As a buyer, it's important to know that you have rights when purchasing a vehicle. These rights are designed to protect you from fraudulent practices such as odometer tampering and ensure that you receive a fair deal.  

Under federal and state laws, sellers are required to disclose accurate mileage and provide an honest history of the vehicle. When these rules are violated, buyers have legal recourse to seek compensation for their losses. 

To protect yourself, always conduct thorough research before purchasing a vehicle. In the event that you discover discrepancies or suspect fraud, it’s important to take action as soon as you can to mitigate any potential financial losses. 

Consulting with an experienced odometer fraud attorney can provide you with the necessary legal guidance to navigate the complexities of your case and hold the offending party accountable. At Tabak Law Firm, I'm committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive the justice you deserve. 

Demographics Who Tend to Fall Victim to Odometer Fraud

Odometer fraud can affect anyone, but certain groups may be more vulnerable to this type of deceit.

Senior citizens, in particular, often fall victim to odometer fraud for several reasons. They may be less familiar with the latest technological advancements and how odometers can be tampered with. They may also rely more heavily on the honesty of the seller, especially if the seller appears trustworthy or comes recommended by someone they know. Plus, seniors often seek out lower-mileage vehicles for reliability purposes, making them prime targets for mileage rollback scams.  

Other vulnerable individuals include first-time car buyers and those who may not have the resources to conduct thorough background checks on a vehicle. Regardless of the buyer's demographic, it's crucial to remain vigilant and educate oneself about the signs of odometer fraud to prevent falling victim to this illegal practice.  

If you believe that you or someone you know has been affected, meeting with an experienced odometer fraud attorney is imperative to protect your rights and seek justice. 

Odometer Fraud FAQs

What should I do if I suspect odometer fraud after purchasing a vehicle? 

Start by gathering all relevant documents, such as the bill of sale, vehicle history reports, and any service records. These can provide crucial evidence to support your claim.  

Next, contact an experienced odometer fraud attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you seek compensation for your losses.  

Can I still take legal action if I bought the vehicle from a private seller? 

Yes, you can pursue legal action for odometer fraud even if you bought the vehicle from a private seller. Both private sellers and dealerships are subject to federal and state laws that prohibit odometer tampering. If you can provide evidence that the private seller knowingly misrepresented the vehicle's mileage, you may have a strong case for compensation.  

An experienced odometer fraud attorney will help you gather the necessary evidence and build a solid case to hold the seller accountable.  

What Damages Can I Recover?

Victims of odometer fraud are entitled to several types of damages to compensate for their financial losses and any additional hardships they have endured. The primary form of compensation is the financial difference between the price paid for the vehicle and its actual market value with the correct mileage. This can include: 

• Cost difference compensation: Recovering the overpayment made due to the fraudulent mileage representation. 

• Repair and maintenance costs: If the vehicle's actual higher mileage led to increased repair and maintenance expenses, these additional costs can be claimed. 

• Diminished value: Compensation for the decrease in the vehicle's resale value due to the mileage discrepancy. 

• Incidental expenses: Reimbursement for any other costs incurred as a result of the fraud, such as rental car fees if the vehicle was unusable. 

Consulting with a seasoned car dealer fraud attorney is key to exploring all possible avenues of compensation and protecting your rights as a consumer.