Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Re: libility for being co-owner of a car that is uninsured

Thanks for your posting. Although you've received a number of responses already, I wanted to underline that the answer to your questions depends on whether or not you are the registered owner on title and whether or not the insurance is in your name (and insurance may require the registration to be in your name, or may require you to exclude your sister as a driver).

Make sure nothing is in your name and you don't have to get worried. If you are registered, you can be sued if there is an accident, and you may have to pay insurance deductibles on an accident if the insurance is in your name.

I hope this helps, but if you have any other questions, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected], and best of luck.

Re: libility for being co-owner of a car that is uninsured

If you're on title, you get sued if she does.

Re: libility for being co-owner of a car that is uninsured

Make certain that your name and your wife's name are not on the title... the car was clearly a gift...

I am assuming the car is paid in full, in which case there is no reason for your wife or yourself to have your names on the title.

If you are financing, and paying the monthly bill, and your name is on the title... you would be considered a co-owner and should pay for insurance on the vehicle...

Re: libility for being co-owner of a car that is uninsured

A registered owner of a car is liable up to $15,000 of liability for personal injuries for any one person and $30,000 for any one accident for personal injuries and up to $5,000 for property damage. (see Calif. Vehicle COde Section 17150). There is unlimited liability for negligent entrustment.