Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 470 - Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board
Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 470 — Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board
Overview
Title 470 governs the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board (MVAB) in Rhode Island.
The MVAB provides an administrative forum to resolve disputes between consumers and motor vehicle dealers regarding the sale or lease of vehicles.
It is designed to be a less formal, faster, and less costly alternative to litigation for resolving motor vehicle disputes.
Purpose and Scope
To resolve disagreements involving:
Warranty claims
Repair disputes
Sales contract issues
Other controversies related to new or used motor vehicles purchased or leased in Rhode Island.
The Board helps consumers avoid expensive court proceedings by offering arbitration and mediation services.
Structure and Jurisdiction
The Board consists of appointed members representing consumers, dealers, and impartial arbitrators.
It has jurisdiction over disputes within specified monetary limits and scope relating to motor vehicle sales or leases.
Consumers or dealers may initiate arbitration by filing a claim with the Board.
Procedures
Filing a Claim
Consumers file a written request detailing the dispute.
The Board notifies the dealer or other party.
Hearing
A hearing is scheduled where both parties present evidence and arguments.
The process is less formal than a court trial but allows sworn testimony and presentation of documents.
Decision
The Board issues a written decision which may include remedies like repair, replacement, reimbursement, or other relief.
Decisions are binding unless appealed in accordance with procedural rules.
Appeals
Either party can seek judicial review if they believe the Board exceeded its authority or erred legally.
Legal Principles and Relevant Case Law Concepts
Because Title 470 establishes an administrative dispute resolution system, courts focus on several key principles in reviewing Board decisions:
1. Authority of the Board
The Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board’s power is limited to the scope defined by its regulations.
Courts uphold the Board’s decisions when it acts within its jurisdiction and follows prescribed procedures.
If the Board acts outside its authority, courts may set aside its rulings.
2. Due Process and Fair Hearing
The Board must provide both parties with a fair opportunity to present their case.
Procedural fairness includes notice of hearings, the ability to present evidence, and impartial adjudication.
Courts invalidate Board decisions if due process is violated.
3. Binding Nature of Arbitration
Board decisions are generally final and binding, reflecting the nature of arbitration.
However, courts can review for arbitrariness, abuse of discretion, or legal error.
Illustrative Case Law Principles (General)
Upholding Arbitration Decisions: Courts usually defer to the Board’s factual findings if supported by evidence.
Procedural Fairness: Courts overturn decisions where parties were denied opportunity to be heard or where Board members showed bias.
Scope of Jurisdiction: Cases have been remanded when the Board ruled on disputes outside its statutory or regulatory authority.
Summary
Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 470 establishes the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board as an accessible, efficient forum to resolve motor vehicle disputes.
The Board operates with limited jurisdiction, offering hearings and binding decisions.
Key legal principles include the Board’s authority, the requirement of due process, and judicial deference to arbitration results.
Courts ensure the Board acts fairly, within its powers, and respects parties’ procedural rights.
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