Montréal, May 3, 2007. - Me Denis Roy, Chairman of the Commission des services juridiques (CSJ), today launched the information campaign entitled My Used Vehicle—A Wise Purchase? aimed at fostering consumer awareness about the purchase of used vehicles and the legal aspects of such purchases. Swept up by the beautiful warm weather, a large number of consumers will be purchasing used vehicles this spring. In order to prevent speedy impulse purchases, it is advisable to know one’s rights and responsibilities so as to avoid legal misunderstandings.
A Practical Checklist
The Commission des services juridiques will provide consumers with a practical checklist they can use before, during and after the purchase of a vehicle. The checklist sets out the important elements consumers should keep in mind, such as inspecting the vehicle before its purchase, being familiar with the vehicle’s history and knowing the warranties covering the vehicle. “I am convinced that a better knowledge of the essential elements to be checked when purchasing a used vehicle could have avoided the legal difficulties experienced by some of our clients,” explained Me Roy.
Kacya Cotton, automotive analyst for CAA-Quebec, confirms that several steps are essential when purchasing a used automobile: “It is important for consumers to have the vehicle inspected by a reliable mechanic, to inform themselves about the vehicle's history and to do a road test in order to be sure about their choice.”
The checklist will be available in all legal aid offices throughout Québec. Consumers will also be able to download the electronic version of the checklist by visiting the CSJ’s Web site (www.csj.qc.ca). An array of additional information will also be available on the Web site.
This initiative falls within the mission of the CSJ which includes the mandate to inform the public about its legal rights and obligations.
About the Commission des services juridiques
The Commission des services juridiques is the agency charged with applying the Legal Aid Act in Québec. Legal aid may be granted to anyone who is financially eligible, in order to cover various legal services involving civil, family, administrative or criminal matters or matters relating to youth law.
CAA-Quebec , a partner in this campaign, is a non-profit organization established in 1904 that offers its 875,000 members a wide range of services, including services in the automotive sector. Its professionals in Automotive Advisory Services answer some 125,000 member requests for information each year on topics including the sale and purchase of a vehicle.
For more information, please contact Mrs. Marie-Noëlle Trottier by telephone at 514 873-3562, or by e-mail at mntrottier@csj.qc.ca.
-30-
Source :
Marie-Noëlle Trottier,
Information Officer
514 873-3562