Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Maryland

Co-signing for a vehicle

I co-signed for my sister to get a car. My name is first on everything. I made this agreement with her, in hopes that she would turn her life around. But she hasn't, and is now back with an abusive ex. I told her that he is not allowed to drive the vehicle, because she only has liability insurance and if anything happens to the car I am ulitimatley resposnible. She refused, and now I am left trying to obtain the vehicle. She is saying I have no rights to the car, and that I cannot take it. So, I'm trying to find out what rights I have, and if I need to take her to court, or can I consider it stolen if he's driving it? Please help me, I cannot afford to lose everything because of an abusive loser, and dumb sister. What can I do?


Asked on 9/19/07, 8:57 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: Co-signing for a vehicle

You and your sister have equal rights to the car. The order of names on the title is irrelevant. This means you can't prevent her from letting her boyfriend--or anyone else--use the car. But it also means you could legally take possession of the vehicle if you are able to do so. You need to make sure the vehicle remains fully and adequately insured, including collision and comprehensive coverage. If someone wrecks the car, you will still be responsible on the note, and you won't have insurance to pay for it if the damages are your sister's or the boyfriend's fault.

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Answered on 9/19/07, 10:03 am


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