Compensation fund provides greater protection for automotive consumers
Fund established with revenue from vehicle sales levy and automotive industry licensing fees
The compensation fund was established with revenue from a levy on vehicle sales and automotive industry licensing fees.
Think you’ve been ripped off by an unscrupulous auto mechanic? Now you may be able to get back some of that lost money.
Alberta consumers who purchase automotive vehicle sales and repairs now have additional protection, according to the provincial government.
Those consumers will be able to get compensation from a $1.5 million fund introduced by the Alberta government and the Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC) for financial losses where no other options for resolution with the business are available.
“A fund that compensates wronged consumers is an important addition to the work that AMVIC and the government do to protect Albertans,” said Service Alberta Minister Manmeet Bhullar. “While AMVIC can mediate, investigate and lay charges, direct compensation when no other recourse is available provides greater piece of mind, protection and confidence for Albertans when dealing with the automotive industry.”
AMVIC is responsible for regulating the automotive industry on behalf of the provincial government. The industry includes new, used, consignment and lease automotive and RV dealerships as well as automotive repair and recycling businesses.
The council investigates complaints against licensed automotive businesses and registered salespeople, and enforces Alberta’s automotive industry regulations under the provincial Fair Trading Act.
“We know how important it is to build trust and professionalism in the automotive marketplace,” said Nancy Suranyi, chair of AMVIC’s board of directors. “This fund complements our other programs and services and reinforces our combined commitment with the government to ensure better protection for consumers.”
The compensation fund was established with revenue from a levy on vehicle sales and automotive industry licensing fees.
The Alberta government approved the levy to create the fund and enhance AMVIC’s investigation and education roles.
Category: Alberta
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