Legal Question in Criminal Law in Hawaii

unauthorized usage of vehicle and cell phone

Is there anything I can do about I let someone use my car to drop off other folks, with the understanding to return within 30 minutes. Somehow, my car got in the property of the passengers to be dropped off. They took my car to town and did not say anything. I could not find my car for a day, and police said they could do nothing cause initially I lent the car, willingly giving the keys. Also, when I found my car, paint damage was done. My cell phone was used excessively. I was missing belongings from in the car like clothes and shoes. what can I do? And how do I go about finding out who these people are?


Asked on 7/13/01, 5:56 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: unauthorized usage of vehicle and cell phone

The situation you describe is called a "bailment" in the law. The person to whom you loaned your car assumed the obligation of safeguarding it and returning it in the same or better condition than when received, subject to normal wear and tear.

The person to whom you loaned the car is responsible for the damages to the car, the cell phone and the loss of clothes. If s/he has a complaint with the passengers that is her problem.

Check with small claims court if she won't voluntarily pay.

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Answered on 7/14/01, 12:27 pm


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