Legislation Increases Protection Offerings for Montanans
Service contracts and motor vehicle protection products protect consumers from unforeseen financial setbacks relating to their vehicles. However, state laws vary on what kinds of coverage these products can provide. Earlier this year, Montana lawmakers furthered the protection available to its citizens by signing a new law that affords additional options for people looking to keep their budgets safe. Montana joins over 40 other states to expressly authorize these new protection options for vehicle owners.
These agreements and products, sold primarily by auto dealers, provide financial protection against damage to or theft of a consumer’s motor vehicle, thereby helping Montana households defray unforeseen costs caused by:
- Repair or replacement of tires and wheels damaged by road hazards
- Removal of dents or creases repairable by paintless dent removal
- Repair of small windshield chips or cracks, or replacement for chips or cracks that cannot be repaired
- Replacement of key-fob(s) if it becomes inoperable or is lost or stolen
- Excess wear and use – such as exceeding the annual mileage restrictions – for a leased vehicle
Consumers are now afforded the same protections under Montana law for these product types that they have for service contracts. This includes product disclosures and requirements that assure providers are able to fulfill their promise to cover benefits. The new law officially expands the financial protection suite available to consumers, joining other high-value products like auto service contracts and GAP waivers.
Consumers need more protection offerings to find a plan that works best for their situation. The Motor Vehicle Protection Products Association is working to expand these offerings to other states throughout the U.S. Keep an eye on our news page to hear about helpful new laws in this area.