Virginia Lemon Law on Computers
Unlike other states, as of 2010, the Commonwealth of Virginia has yet to pass a lemon law that deal specifically with computers or appliances. However, the state does have consumer protection regulations that provide recourse for its residents. In addition, the Federal Trade Commission has responsibility for enforcing the Magnuson-Moss Act -- a federal lemon law for computers, appliances and automobiles.
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Features
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The Virginia Consumer Protection Act provides legal safeguards for residents who purchase computers or other goods under false advertising or misrepresentation in any way by merchants or manufacturers. The statutes prohibit misrepresentation concerning the quality or defects of computers. The Magnuson-Moss Act states that manufacturers must replace, refund the cost or provide monetary damages for computers that require multiple repairs for the same defect covered under the manufacturer's warranty.
Identification
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If a computer requires multiple repairs for the same defect, it may fit the definition of a lemon. Virginia consumers who purchase a new computer should keep good records regarding problems with the computer or peripheral devices covered under product warranty. Keep track of dates, times and the person spoken to whether calling technical support or dealing with the manufacturer.
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Considerations
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The law does not cover issues resulting from using the computer inappropriately. For example, if a consumer purchases a low-cost computer with minimal memory and processing speed and the intention of running graphic intensive software, the computer will probably run slow and lock up. However, if the merchant stated the computer could handle the software, the merchant may be in violation of the implied warranty regulations.
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- Photo Credit computer image by martini from Fotolia.com
