Whether you are in the market for a used vehicle or intend to bring a vehicle purchased in another state into Stuart, Florida, understanding the extent of car inspection laws is important.
Failing to have your car inspected when required in the area might not seem like a serious offense, but in the event that you end up in a car crash, your inaction can lead to you being found negligent. Therefore, it is essential to retain a skilled lawyer who can investigate all the facts of your crash and accurately advise you on your rights to compensation.
A Stuart car accident lawyer from Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers can explain the relevant requirements to you and also provide support if an uninspected vehicle collides with you and causes you injury. Contact us today at (772) 444-7000 for a free consultation.
How Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Can Help After a Car Accident in Stuart, FL
Given their complexity, Florida’s car inspection and car accident laws can be confusing. Thankfully, the Stuart car accident attorneys from Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers can assist you in holding negligent drivers accountable when they cause severe injuries to you or a loved one.
Our award-winning attorneys will do the following on your behalf:
- Evaluate the facts of your case to determine who is responsible for paying compensation
- Gather evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and crash reports
- Prepare and file your claim and request the damages to which you are entitled
- Negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement for your claim with insurers and opposing attorneys
- Pursue damages on your behalf in court, if necessary
Do not neglect the potential significance of a driver who crashes into you and does not have their car inspected according to the law. That, along with other relevant factors, can mean the difference between your lawsuit’s success or failure. Entrust your claim and its outcome to our Stuart personal injury lawyers. Call now for a free case review.
Stuart Car Inspection Laws: What to Know
Unlike some states, Florida does not require motorists to have their vehicles routinely reviewed. However, there are two situations where you may need to have your car or truck inspected.
These include:
When Your Vehicle Is Purchased Out of State
If you purchased your vehicle outside Florida and want to register it in the state, you must have a vehicle inspection performed first. The law mandates that any out-of-state vehicles be registered with the authorities within ten days of their owners establishing residency, starting a job, or enrolling their children in school within the state.
When You Purchase a Used Vehicle in Florida
Second, any used vehicle you purchase within the State of Florida must be inspected before you can register it.
As touched upon earlier, there are no annual inspection or emissions testing requirements; once a vehicle is properly registered in Florida, it does not need to go through any mechanical or other inspections before re-registering in subsequent years.
Where to Get Inspections Completed
If you are legally required to get an inspection before registering your car, you have several options. First, you can take your vehicle to a state-certified mechanic. You must verify that the mechanic possesses the requisite training, experience, and certification before scheduling an inspection with them.
Alternatively, you can contact a law enforcement agency and ask it to perform the inspection. Some jurisdictions may be inclined to do so if they have the staff on duty when you ask them.
What Happens During a Vehicle Inspection?
When your vehicle goes in for an inspection, a mechanic or police officer will perform a visual assessment of your car. In particular, they will be looking to see whether it appears that your lights, tires, brakes, and other safety equipment are in working order. They will also verify that the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the vehicle matches the VIN on the title paperwork.
Contact Our Stuart Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Any driver who crashes into you and causes severe injuries may be liable to you for damages if they acted negligently. Not having their car properly registered or inspected can be seen as negligent, especially if an easily discoverable mechanical defect contributed to the crash.
Recovering compensation after a crash begins by contacting a Stuart car accident attorney at Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We will discuss your case with you, as well as the rights and compensation you could obtain by filing a claim.
