Legal Question in Insurance Law in Florida

A complicated question about a missing car.

This is a complicated question. I purchased a car in another state and arranged for a friend to drive it to Florida. The car is titled, registered, and insured in Florida in my name. My friend took possession of the car and has since disappeared. I have not heard from him in weeks, and I am concerned about my liability if he should get in an accident.

The police have refused to accept a stolen vehicle report because I authorized him to drive the car, but at this point, I don't know where it is or for what purpose it's being used. I have notified the insurance company of the situation, but there isn't much they can do.

At this point, I want to get rid of the vehicle. I would like to cancel the registration so I can remove it from my insurance policy. Is this legal? Am I liable if the car is involved in an accident? Is there some point at which I can actually report the car as stolen?


Asked on 8/17/06, 3:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Richard Weldon Weldon & Rothman, PL

Re: A complicated question about a missing car.

Wow... there are a lot of issues to address in your question. I would try again to report the vehicle stolen and maintain documentation as to who you spoke with, date, and time of the officer. Do the same with your insurance company and any attempts you have made to contact your "friend". This should decrease your risk of liability, however, it may not eliminate that risk depending upon your previous knowledge of your friend's history, etc.

This issue is too complex to answer in this type of forum and will require some legal research. If you are interested in retaining legal representation, then please do not hesitate to contact my office.

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Answered on 8/17/06, 9:28 pm


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