LIABILITY IN RENTAL CAR ACCIDENTS
House Bill 4043
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer Faunce
Committee: Commerce
Complete to 7-24-01
A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4043 AS INTRODUCED 1-25-01
The Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.401) sets forth conditions in which a person engaged in the business of leasing motor vehicles is liable for an injury caused by the negligent operation of a motor vehicle leased for a period of 30 days or less. The person leasing the vehicle is liable only if such an injury occurs while the vehicle is operated by a driver authorized under the lease agreement or by the lessee's spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other immediate family member. House Bill 4043 would amend the code to specify that the lessor is liable in the case of an injury caused by the negligence of the lessee's family member only if that family member is a licensed driver, regardless of his or her age.
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This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.