§ 31-5.1-18. Transportation damages. (a) Notwithstanding the terms, provisions, or conditions of any agreement or franchise, the new motor vehicle dealer is solely liable for damages to new motor vehicles after acceptance from the carrier and before delivery to the ultimate purchaser.

(b) Notwithstanding the terms, provisions, or conditions of any agreement or franchise, the manufacturer is liable for all damages to motor vehicles before delivery to a carrier or transporter.

(c) The new motor vehicle dealer is liable for damages to new motor vehicles after delivery to the carrier only if the dealer selects the method of transportation, mode of transportation, and the carrier. In all other instances, the manufacturer is liable for carrier-related new motor vehicle damage.

(d) On any new motor vehicle, any uncorrected damage or any corrected damage exceeding six percent (6%) of the manufacturer's suggested retail price, as defined in 26 U.S.C. § 4216 and measured by retail repair costs, must be disclosed in writing prior to delivery. Damage to glass, tires, and bumpers is excluded from the six percent (6%) rule when replaced by identical manufacturer's original equipment.

(e) Repaired damage to a customer ordered new motor vehicle, not exceeding the six percent (6%) rule, shall not constitute grounds for revocation of the customer order. The customer's right of revocation ceases upon his or her acceptance of delivery of the vehicle.

(f) If damage to a vehicle exceeds the six percent (6%) rule at either the time the new motor vehicle is accepted by the new motor vehicle dealer, or whenever the risk of loss is shifted to the dealer (as defined in subsection (c)), whichever occurs first, then the dealer may reject the vehicle within a reasonable time. Should the dealer elect to repair any damage exceeding the six percent (6%) rule, full disclosure shall be made by the dealer in writing to the customer and an acknowledgment by the customer is required. If there is less than six percent (6%) damage as described in subsection (d) of this section, no disclosure is required. Pre-delivery mechanical work shall not require a disclosure.

History of Section. (P.L. 1981, ch. 347, § 1.)