Governor McCrory Moves to Help Protect Consumers from Flooded Vehicle Fraud | Eastern North Carolina Now

Press Release:

    Raleigh, N.C.     Governor Pat McCrory has directed the N.C. Department of Transportation's Division of Motor Vehicles to help consumers across the state identify signs of flooding when purchasing a vehicle.

    "I want to do everything possible to help victims of Hurricane Matthew get back on their feet," said Governor McCrory. "Protecting consumers is an important part of the recovery effort in the impacted communities and across the state."

    Earlier today, the DMV License and Theft Bureau showcased vehicles damaged by flooding. Inspectors warned consumers to look for various differences in a flood damaged vehicle compared to an undamaged vehicle. Those differences include water stains, mildew, a strong odor of cleaning products and dirt and grime in small recesses of the engine area. Inspectors also encouraged consumers to obtain a vehicle history report and have a mechanic inspect the car thoroughly.

    "Flood damaged vehicles are easy to sell in ways that defraud the public, especially over the internet," said DMV Commissioner Kelly Thomas. "Governor McCrory and I want to be sure that consumers in North Carolina know what to look for before purchasing a vehicle that may have been impacted by floodwaters."

    Governor McCrory also ordered the DMV to temporarily waive certain driver license and registration fees for customers in the 37 counties most affected by the hurricane and subsequent flooding. DMV is not charging driver license fees or vehicle fees for citizens in the affected counties through the month of November. This also includes commercial driver licenses.

• Contact: Crystal Feldman
•     govpress@nc.gov