Can I buy a mobility vehicle on-line?

Yes, of course. The question, however, is how to buy a vehicle appropriate for your needs, compliant with industry regulations and standards, and one with which you will be satisfied in regards to future service and warranty.

What do state laws say about the on-line purchasing process?

Some states have specific laws concerning selling a vehicle across state lines. These laws are to protect the consumer. Check with legal counsel regarding the laws in your state.

Will I ever personally meet a sales representative from an internet seller?

More than likely not. Internet sales companies usually do not have regional sales representatives. You will be assigned an “in house” sales representative, who will assist you, but with the lack of personal interaction, they may not be able to fully assess your needs, and the opportunity to develop a personal relationship will be diminished.

How would I obtain a license tag for a van I purchase on-line?

You will be able to go to your local tag office and purchase a permanent license tag. There may be a period of time when you cannot use your vehicle as temporary tags are usually not valid except within the state they are issued. Check with your local department of motor vehicles to verify.

How would I obtain a title for a van that I purchase out of state?

An out of state Seller who is located in a state other than the state you reside in probably can’t obtain a title for you in your name. The seller may simply provide the title to you at the time of delivery. You would then be required to take the title to your local tag office and transfer it (for a fee) to your name. You should be very cautious about the titling process. Titles are complex and errors can occur. Correcting a title error is a time consuming and often complex task. Of significant importance is knowing the origin of your vehicle and title. Over 500,000 vehicles were branded “flood”, scrap, or salvage” vehicles in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Some states allow the conversion of a “flood, salvage, or scrap title” after an inspection and then will issue a “non-branded title” which will leave no indication of its previous status.

If my van’s mechanical systems fail while I own it, who is responsible?

That is a question of warranty and depends on the OEM warranty and the warranty provided by the vehicle modifier. A more significant issue is failure of a vehicle system resulting in bodily injury or property damage. In this case, the vehicle modifier should have what is called “product liability insurance”. This insurance covers any damages to property or injury that might occur as the result of defects which are the responsibility of the modifier. Without this coverage, the vehicle owner has no recourse – someone to turn to for responsibility. Make sure to request a certificate of product liability insurance. Vehicle sellers also have what is called “garage insurance” to cover the work they perform. NMEDA members carry coverage of $1,000,000 per occurence.

If my van is involved in an accident or stolen after I have purchased it and before I receive it (while it is still in the care of the on-line mobility dealer), who is responsible for the damage or loss?

The answer depends on who has what insurance.  So make sure that your insurance starts upon your purchase even if you have not yet received the vehicle. It is a good idea to request a proof of insurance from the internet seller.  Most vehicle dealers have what is called Garage Liability Insurance. If they are liable for the loss or damage, this insurance should cover the cost. Sometimes there is a question as to whose insurance is primarily responsible the internet seller’s, the trucking company’s, or yours.

What if I have substantial problems with a van I purchase on-line?

Most states have “lemon law” statutes that address defective vehicles. However, YOUR state’s lemon law may not apply if the van was not purchased in that state. Confer with legal counsel about this question.  Aside from lawsuits, in many situations where there is a conflict, personal contact and established relationships help resolve the problem. In the case of on-line purchasing, you may never personally meet an individual from the internet seller. See section below on warranty.

How will I know that the vehicle I purchase on-line will be properly converted and fit the needs of my disability?

Very important question. You really will not know until the vehicle is delivered to you. Every van is different and mistakes can occur. Also, without the internet seller meeting you personally and you having the ability to “test” the vehicle, there is no way to fully ensure that you will properly fit in the vehicle and be able to use it as you desire. Make sure in advance that you have the right to refuse delivery of the vehicle and receive a full refund if, upon delivery, you do not like the way the van fits your needs; it fails to meet your reasonable expectations; or, it does not match the description provided by the internet seller. See next section on this web site about “Appropriateness of Product”.

Can my internet seller provide me with references?

Yes, but the references may not be local to you, making them more difficult to verify. Whereas, with a local seller, in your community, you can personally meet individuals who have purchased and used the services of your local retailer.