What are my rights if I had an oil change and not 10 miles later it fell off?
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What are my rights if I had an oil change and not 10 miles later it fell off?
I recently got an oil change from a major chain. When I drove the car less then 10 miles, the oil filter fell off. I was unaware of this. So when I was driving the oil light came on. I was on an interstate so by the time I was able to pull over the engine had ceased. It was maybe on for 1-2 miles. I took it to a garage and the said there was no oil filter. So I was able to find where it fell off my car. I have pictures of the road and where it happen. What should I expect from them? As in me engine, pay for the tow bill, rental car? Or is it safe to just get a lawyer right away?
Asked on August 15, 2016 under Business Law, New York
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
The oil change establishment is liable for negligence. Negligence is the failure to exercise due care (that degree of care that a reasonable oil change establishment would have exercised under the same or similar circumstances to prevent foreseeable harm).
Prior to filing a lawsuit for negligence, it may be possible to settle the case with the oil change establishment's insurance carrier. Your compensation should include the items you mentioned; engine, towing, rental car, and any other costs incurred that were caused by the negligence of the oil change establishment.
If the case is settled with the insurance carrier for the oil change place, NO lawsuit is filed.
If you are dissatisfied with settlement offers from the insurance carrier, reject the settlement offers and file a lawsuit for negligence against the oil change establishment.
If the case is NOT settled, your lawsuit for negligence must be filed prior to the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations or you will lose your rights forever in the matter.
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