10 M.R.S. §1174-B: Transportation damages

1. Liability of a new dealer after acceptance. Notwithstanding the terms, provisions or conditions of any agreement or franchise, the new motor vehicle dealer is solely liable for damages to new motor vehicles after acceptance from the carrier and before delivery to the ultimate purchaser.

2. Liability of manufacturer. Notwithstanding the terms, provisions or conditions of any agreement or franchise, the manufacturer is liable for all damages to motor vehicles before delivery to a carrier or transporter.

3. Additional liability of dealer. The new motor vehicle dealer is liable for damages to new motor vehicles after delivery to the carrier only if the dealer selects the method of transportation, mode of transportation and the carrier. In all other instances, the manufacturer is liable for carrier-related new motor vehicle damage, except that the new motor vehicle dealer must annotate the bill of lading or other carrier document indicating damages observed at the time of delivery to the motor vehicle dealer, and that the dealer shall promptly notify the manufacturer of any concealed damage discovered after delivery.