The Program FAQ’s may also be able to answer your questions.  Please click HERE to visit the FAQ’s page.

 

Below, is some very important information regarding the type of hearings you are able to choose from in this process.

 

How do I know what type of hearing will be best for me?   

The Program offers three (3) choices for your hearing:

 

1. Documents Only (no oral presentations are required),

2. Online Dispute Resolution (oral presentations are conducted by Zoom or conference call), and

3. In Person Hearing (oral presentations are conducted face to face and the Arbitrator may decide to conduct a visual inspection or test drive)

 

Advantages of Documents Only Hearing: · Speed – since the Program does not need to schedule a time for everyone to meet either online or in person, the hearing can be coordinated more quickly · Easy – you do not need to take off time from work or other activities · Convenient – you do not need to drive to a meeting location.

 

Disadvantages of Documents Only Hearing: · The Arbitrator’s decision is based on the written documents and the repair orders · There is no inspection of the vehicle, unless you request an independent inspection by an Automotive Service Excellence certified mechanic prior to the hearing (remember this is available at no cost to you).

 

Advantages of Online Dispute Resolution Hearing: · Speed – since the Program does not need to schedule a time for everyone to meet in person, the hearing can be coordinated more quickly · Fast – most Zoom and conference call hearings take less time than an in person hearing · Easy – you can call in to the conference call or log on to Zoom at a location convenient for you  · Convenient – you do not need to drive to a meeting location.

 

Disadvantages of Online Dispute Resolution Hearing: · With a conference call you will not have face to face contact; although Zoom can accommodate face to face if parties can use a webcam · There is no inspection of the vehicle, unless you request an independent inspection by an Automotive Service Excellence certified mechanic (remember, this is available at no cost to you); although the Arbitrator may ask if you can safely record a video of the vehicle.

 

Advantages of In Person Hearing: · Face to face – everyone is in the room  · Inspection – the Arbitrator may choose to inspect your vehicle or to ride along on a test drive.  Remember you will need to bring your vehicle, along with proof of insurance and current registration. If you believe the vehicle cannot be safely driven you will need to trailer the vehicle to the hearing at your own cost. You can request the Arbitrator to reimburse these costs you if you prevail. 

 

Disadvantages of In Person Hearing: · Scheduling – since the Program needs to schedule a time for everyone to meet in person, the hearing may take several weeks to coordinate · Travel and travel time – you will need to drive to the hearing location.