Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Rental Vehicle Non-authorized use

I rented a vehicle where I was the only authorized user. I let a family member use the vehicle and he let a friend use the auto which was involved in an auto accident which totaled the auto, and the driver is in the hosp. in critical condition. He was positive for alcohol and drugs. I do not know this man. I need to go to court for unauthorized use of a rental vehicle. Can I be held negligent? and face a jail time.


Asked on 6/03/04, 1:39 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

Re: Rental Vehicle Non-authorized use

Anyone convicted of Transportation Code at section 18-106, Unauthorized use of rented motor vehicle, faces a possible $500 fine and/or imprisonment not more than 2 months under this misdemeanor charge.

Unauthorized use of rented motor vehicle is defined to include "(a) Lessees permitting other persons to drive rented motor vehicles. -- If a person rents a motor vehicle under an agreement not to permit another person to drive the vehicle the person may not permit any other person to drive the rented motor vehicle.

You should contact an attorney for this matter.

In addition, civil liability may attach meaning that you may be sued for any injury or damage caused by the improper driver.

Contact me at (410) 799-9002 should you desire representation. Joe Holthaus

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Answered on 6/03/04, 4:11 pm


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