470 R.I. Code R. 470-RICR-00-00-1.14

Current through December 3, 2024
Section 470-RICR-00-00-1.14 - Conduct of Documentary Arbitration Hearings
A. If the consumer elects a documentary arbitration procedure, the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board shall gather and disseminate all documentary information and evidence in accordance with the following procedures:
1. The Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board shall notify the consumer by first class mail that he or she must submit a sworn or affirmed statement as to the facts of the dispute and any evidence that he or she wishes the panel to consider. The consumer shall forward said documentation to the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board within fourteen (14) days from the date of his or her receipt of notice;
2. The Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board shall notify the manufacturer of the dispute, pursuant to § 1.8(B) of this Part. The manufacturers shall submit a sworn or affirmed statement as to the facts of the dispute, any evidence the manufacturer wishes the panel to consider and comply with § 1.7 of this Part.
3. Upon receipt of both the consumer's and manufacturer's sworn or affirmed statements and documentary evidence, the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board shall, by first class mail, forward copies of the consumers' submissions to the manufacturer and forward copies of the manufacturer's submission to the consumer.
B. Each party shall thereupon have the opportunity to respond to the opposing party's submissions. Each response shall be submitted in writing to the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board within ten (10) days from the date of the responding party's receipt of said documents.
C. The Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board shall forward copies of all submitted documents and responses thereto to the arbitrators and to the technical expert assigned to consult with and advise said arbitrators, at least five days prior to the scheduled hearing date.
D. At the documentary hearing, the panel shall:
1. Review all documents and statements;
2. Consult with the appointed technical expert, as necessary;
3. Seek further information and documents of either or both parties through the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board; and request that, upon receipt, the Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board forward copies of said information to the opposing party, panel and technical expert assigned to the case;
4. Schedule vehicle inspections, if deemed necessary.
E. All evidence and statements received by the panel shall be considered part of the record.

470 R.I. Code R. 470-RICR-00-00-1.14