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Lawyers with expertise in automotive matters

Did your car break down in traffic, or maybe crash? Or does your car have a defect that you didn't know about when you bought it? Whatever happened to your car after your purchase, we can help.

In order to be able to complain about, or seek compensation for, problems relating to a car, your car must be in line with what is normally expected based on age, use, mileage and the like. This isn't always easy to figure out on your own, but contact one of our car lawyers - and we'll figure it out together!

In addition to knowing the law, we also have some car enthusiasts, and can therefore give you good advice and solutions. No car matter is too big or too small, and it doesn't take long before you and your car are back on the road.

Do you need help resolving a car case? Book a free, no-obligation meeting with one of our car lawyers - we can assist buyers and sellers all over the country.

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Frequently asked questions about Biladvokat

"As is" caveat, what is it?

"As is" is a reservation by the seller that means that the buyer accepts a certain degree of risk of defects that may appear later, whether the seller has disclosed it or not. If a buyer is to make a claim in a case where a car has been sold "as is", the car must be in significantly worse condition than the buyer had reason to expect. What the buyer has reason to expect depends, among other things, on the amount of the purchase price, use and other factors that may affect the condition of the car.

How long is the warranty period for a car purchase?

If you buy a car from a car dealer, the Consumer Purchase Act applies. This gives you a five-year right of complaint against hidden faults and defects. However, you must make a complaint within a reasonable time after you discover, or should have discovered, the defect. Therefore, always notify the seller as soon as possible!

The car has defects, what can I claim?

You have several options: rectification, price reduction, redelivery, termination and compensation. Contact us to check which claim you should make. 

Coverage of legal costs

If you have insurance on your car, you also have legal aid coverage. Your insurance company can then cover the costs of a lawyer from the time the dispute arises - i.e. when it is clear that you and the seller disagree. As a rule, the insurance covers 80% of the legal expenses, but you must pay a deductible of NOK 4,000. We can check for you if you have legal aid coverage in your insurance policy.

How is a car dispute resolved?

Many cases are resolved through negotiations. If negotiations do not lead anywhere, it is possible to try the case in the conciliation board and possibly the courts.

I have discovered a defect. What do I do?

You should complain as soon as possible after you have discovered a defect. Send a written request to the seller explaining what is wrong and what you require from the seller.

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Car sale – received claim from buyer?

Selling a car privately usually goes well, but in some cases disagreements can arise afterwards. It happens that the buyer contacts the seller weeks or months after handover with demands for a price reduction, repairs, compensation or, in the worst case, cancellation of the purchase – often on the basis of alleged errors or defects. Such situations can be experienced as both unpleasant and confusing, especially when one believes that one has acted in good faith. Nevertheless, it is important to take such claims seriously and handle them in the right way.

What does a claim mean?

A claim for a warranty means that the buyer claims that the car is not as agreed, or that it has a defect or defect. The seriousness of the defect is decisive for what rights the buyer has. In sales between private individuals, this is regulated by the Norwegian Sales Act. The law stipulates, among other things, that the goods must be in accordance with what has been agreed and what the buyer could reasonably expect, based on the car's age, price, mileage and general condition.

An important point is the "sold as is" clause, which is often used in private car purchases. Even with such a clause, the seller can still be held liable if:

  • Incorrect information has been provided that has affected the purchase.
  • Significant information known to the seller about whether the car has been impounded.
  • The car is in significantly worse condition than the buyer had reason to expect based on the price and other conditions.

When can the purchase be cancelled?

Cancellation of a car purchase is the most drastic consequence of a claim for damages. This means that the purchase agreement is cancelled, the buyer returns the car, and the seller refunds the purchase price. In order for a car purchase between private individuals to be cancelled, the defect must be "material". This is a high threshold and requires that the defect is of such a nature that it significantly affects the usability or value of the car, and that it cannot be repaired without disproportionate costs or inconvenience. Examples include serious engine defects, incorrect information about significant damage, or manipulated mileage.

Your rights as a seller

As a seller, you also have rights. First and foremost, you are entitled to receive a specified and justified claim from the buyer. You also often have the right to try to remedy the defect yourself, if you accept that there is a fault. It is important not to acknowledge a claim without having considered the matter thoroughly. Many claims are undocumented or unreasonable, and it is entirely possible to reject them if they have no legal basis.

When should you contact a lawyer?

If the claim is large, unclear, or the buyer is difficult to work with, you should seek legal advice. A lawyer can assess the case objectively and help you respond legally.

Many ordinary car insurance policies also include legal aid coverage that can cover a large portion of legal fees in disputes. The prerequisite is that the car was insured at the time of sale, and that there is a genuine dispute where the buyer has made a claim that you have disputed.

Would you like help and guidance with your case? Contact our automotive lawyers for a no-obligation chat.

Bought a car with hidden defects and flaws? This is what you should know
Discovering hidden defects and defects after purchasing a car can be frustrating and costly. Fortunately, Norwegian law gives you, the buyer, certain rights in such situations. Here is an overview of what you should know and how you can proceed:

What are hidden defects and deficiencies?

Hidden defects and defects refer to problems with the car that were not visible or known at the time of purchase, and that affect the value or functionality of the car. This can include mechanical defects, electrical problems, or structural damage that was not discovered during a routine inspection.

Your rights as a buyer

Your rights depend on whether you bought the car from a private individual or a dealer:

  • Purchase from a retailer: The Consumer Purchase Act applies and gives you a five-year period to file a complaint. You must report the defect within a reasonable time after you discovered it, normally within two months.
  • Purchase from a private individual: The Norwegian Sales Act applies, with a two-year warranty period. Here too, you must report the defect within a reasonable time after you discovered it.

How to deal with hidden errors and defects
  1. Document the fault: Take photos, videos and write down details of the problem. An independent assessment from a repair shop can strengthen your case.
  2. Contact the seller in writing: Inform the seller of the defect as soon as possible and state what you want: repair, price reduction or cancellation of the purchase. Written communication provides proof that you have made a complaint within the deadline.
  3. Give the seller the opportunity to correct the error: The seller usually has the right to attempt to correct the error before considering other measures. This must be done without significant inconvenience to you and within a reasonable time.

When can you cancel your purchase?

Cancellation of the purchase means that the agreement is cancelled, and both parties return what they have received. This is applicable when:

  • Material defect: The defect is so serious that it constitutes a material breach of contract.
  • Failure to rectify: The seller has failed to rectify the error after repeated attempts or within a reasonable time.

What about “as is” reservations?

Many used cars are sold with the condition “as is”. This limits the seller’s liability, but does not completely exempt them. You can still make a claim if:

  • Misinformation: Seller has provided incorrect information.
  • Withheld information: Important information about the car's condition has been withheld.
  • Significantly worse condition: The car is in significantly worse condition than you could reasonably expect.

Seek legal assistance if necessary.

If you cannot reach an agreement with the seller, it may be a good idea to contact a lawyer with experience in purchase law . Many insurance policies cover legal fees in such cases. Book a free, no-obligation meeting with one of our car lawyers.

Compensation after a car accident? You may be entitled to this
A car accident can have significant consequences for both health and finances. It is therefore important to be aware of what rights you have when it comes to compensation after such an incident.

Your rights after a car accident

In Norway, all owners of motor vehicles are required to have liability insurance in accordance with the Motor Vehicle Liability Act. This insurance covers damage caused by the vehicle, regardless of fault. This means that if you are injured in a traffic accident, you are generally entitled to compensation for both personal injuries and financial losses as a result of the accident.

What can you get compensation for?

The compensation must cover the losses you have suffered as a result of the accident. This may include:

  • Medical expenses : Costs for treatment, medication and rehabilitation.
  • Lost income : Loss of income as a result of not being able to work for a period of time.
  • Compensation : Compensation for permanent medical disability that reduces the quality of life.
  • Compensation : Compensation for non-economic loss, in cases where the tortfeasor has acted grossly negligently or intentionally.

How do you go about claiming compensation?

  1. Secure evidence : After the accident, you should document the scene of the accident, the vehicle involved and any damage. Take pictures and write down the sequence of events in as much detail as possible.
  2. See a doctor : Even if the injuries seem minor, it is important to see a doctor for a thorough examination. This also ensures the necessary documentation.
  3. Report the damage to the insurance company : Contact the insurance company as soon as possible and report the damage. Provide all relevant documentation, including medical certificates and receipts for expenses.
  4. Consider legal assistance : Compensation cases can be complex. A lawyer with experience in personal injury compensation can help you ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Important deadlines

It is important to be aware of limitation periods. In general, compensation claims must be submitted within three years from when you became aware of the damage. Failure to meet these deadlines may result in you losing your right to compensation.

Coverage of legal expenses

In many cases, the insurance company will cover reasonable and necessary legal expenses in connection with the compensation case. It is therefore wise to investigate this with the insurance company and possibly engage a lawyer who can assist you through the process.

Being well informed and acting quickly after a car accident is essential to securing your rights. By following this advice, you are better equipped to handle the situation and get the compensation you are entitled to.

If you have any questions in connection with your case, you can book a meeting with us at Insa lawyers , completely free of charge.

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