When it comes to owning a business, like a Philadelphia big box store, owners need to follow the state consumer protection laws as it applies to them. These laws are set forth to protect customers from unfair or deceptive practices. The laws go further beyond legal solutions that are available for a breach of warranty. Laws like these are on the books for nearly every store regardless of location.
Big Box Store Rules and Regulations
Some of the most common cases brought forth under consumer protection laws include but certainly are not limited to:
- A customer sued a big box store that ran out of a product and didn’t give them a rain check- a violation of the consumer protection law.
- A homeowner sued a roofing contractor that falsely advertised an arrangement of financing for roof repair options.
- A client sued a health spa that revoked its promise to return her deposit and cancel her contract if they changed their mind within three days.
For a business to avoid any of these types of lawsuits it is important to know the details of consumer protection laws and inform all employees about practices that could cause trouble. Be on the lookout for state laws that will allow for a customer to sue even if the violation was not intentional.
Consumer Protection Laws
There are consumer protection laws that contain a broad prohibition of unfair or deceptive practices. Certain statutes list specific practices that are forbidden like deceptive advertising and pricing.
It falls under both federal and state law that an advertisement is unlawful if it misleads or deceives regardless of whether or not it fools anyone. If a business promotes a deceptive ad be prepared to face legal issues even if you intended to mislead the customer or not. It is the overall impression created by the advertisement that counts. The technical truthfulness behind it is not taken into account.
The FTC, or Federal Trade Commission has taken action against big box stores accused of false and deceptive advertising. When an FTC investigator is convinced an ad violates the law they are permitted to do the following:
- Convince the violator to voluntarily comply with the law
- Issue a cease and desist order while bringing forth a civil lawsuit on behalf of those who have been harmed
- Seek a court order to stop questionable ads even while an investigation is in progress
- Require the advertiser to run corrective ads, thus admitting that their earlier ads were misleading
There are other consumer protection laws in place in regard to punitive damages. During an ordinary lawsuit, the plaintiff can recover only their actual losses. However, there are consumer protection laws that allow customers to ask for additional penalties. This can significantly increase the damage rewards. These laws also require the defendant to pay for the consumer’s attorney fees. The potential for a large verdict gives consumers and their attorneys an incentive to sue if a law has been violated.
Call Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys Today
Consumer protection laws are complicated. Don’t try your hand at the law when you have suffered an injury at a Philadelphia big box store. Customers should reach out to the Philadelphia personal injury lawyers at Kwartler Manus if they feel their rights as a consumer are being violated. Call our office at 267-457-5570 to schedule a consultation. Our personal injury attorneys can answer all of your questions and provide an honest assessment of your case. Suffering an injury at a big box store does not have to ruin your life. We will fight for your right to compensation.