Larry Dragan – Lemon Law Expert Witness, Certified Mediator and Appraiser  

Larry Dragan is the 2nd generation owner of Stan’s Garage founded in 1941 at Dearborn Heights, Mi. He sold his ownership to his son, Scott. He now serves as its chairman of the board. He is a member of ASA, ASE Blue Seal and IAAA (International Automotive Appraisers Association).

Larry got involved during the ’90s in the mediation of problem vehicles and served on the arbitration boards for both Chrysler and Ford.  Larry still provides many services nationwide including expert witness services, Lemon Law cases, pre-purchase inspections, automotive appraisals, automotive mediation/ umpiring and automotive business coaching and development.

Larry Dragan has 40 + years experience in the automotive industry and still maintains his ASE certifications in Auto and HD Truck.  He was the second generation owner of Stan’s Garage (establish 1941) in Dearborn Heights Mi for over 38 years and still serves as chairman of the board. His son Scott has now taken over the operations but Larry’s still stays very active in the automotive industry.  Larry got involved during the ’90s in the mediation of problem vehicles and served on the arbitration boards for both Chrysler and Ford. Larry stills provides many services nationwide including expert witness services, Lemon Law cases, pre-purchase inspections, automotive appraisals, automotive mediation/ umpiring and automotive business coaching and development.  He is a member of ASA, ASE Blue Seal and IAAA (International Automotive Appraisers Association).

Key Talking Points:

• Expert witness for Lemon Law Attorneys- hired by the owner of the vehicle
  • Every state has different rules and regulations- most are 3 attempts for same repair or 30+ days out of service
  • Can’t verify the complaint. Dealerships will not go too far to solve problems.
  • Larry comes in after process is started or prior to attorney taking case- verifies the complaint, takes documentation   
  • People remain patient for a vehicle that is reliable
  • Most of the time vehicles do not get repaired at dealerships- limitation technicians have to verify the complaint, only getting paid half hour to diagnose 
  • Most cases don’t go to court- cases get settled
• Certified as mediator/umpire
  • Settle cases between two insurance companies or insurance company and owner with collision or flood cases/damages to the vehicle
  • He would go to the TSBs first to see if the problem exists  
• Technician shortage
  • Average technicians are 45-50 years old- what will happen in 10 years when they retire 
  • Need to grow your own technician and appreciate them
• Appraisal discussion

Resources:

• Thanks to Larry Dragan for his contribution to the aftermarket’s premier podcast.
• Link to the ‘BOOKS‘ page highlighting all books discussed in the podcast library HERE. Leaders are readers.
• Leave me an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help and I read each one of them.

Be socially involved and in touch with the show:
Facebook   Twitter   Linked In   Email    Events    Speaking

Subscribe to a mobile listening app HERE.

This episode is brought to you by AAPEX, the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo. AAPEX represents the $740 billion global automotive aftermarket industry and has everything you need to stay ahead of the curve. With 2,500 exhibiting companies, you’ll see the latest products, parts, and technologies for your business. As a result, the event also offers advanced training for shop owners, technicians, warehouse distributors (WDs) and auto parts retailers, as well as networking opportunities to grow your business. AAPEX 2019 will take place Tuesday, Nov. 5 through Thursday, Nov. 7, at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas. Therefore, more than 48,000 targeted buyers are expected to attend, and approximately 162,000 automotive aftermarket professionals. They will be from 135 countries which are projected to be in Las Vegas during AAPEX 2019. For information, visit aapexshow.com