Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

18 yr old daughter has car in my name

My 18 year old has a car in my name. Can I be held liable for any accidents or other mischief she may get into? We live in CA but we also drive in NV. She lives at home and we are on the same insurance policy. Thanx for the help, Jeff


Asked on 3/04/09, 2:53 am

4 Answers from Attorneys

Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: 18 yr old daughter has car in my name

Yes, if you are on title to the vehicle. Talk to your insurance agent to make sure that your coverage is sufficient.

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Answered on 3/04/09, 3:01 am
Adam Telanoff Telanoff & Telanoff

Re: 18 yr old daughter has car in my name

Yes. The owner of the car is liable for any damage, regardless of who is driving.

Make sure that you both have sufficient insurance.

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Answered on 3/04/09, 12:18 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: 18 yr old daughter has car in my name

The registered owners are always liable for damage caused by a driver they let use the car. Make sure you have good insurance. There are sometimes limits to the amount you would be liable for, but don't count on it as guaranteed.

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Answered on 3/04/09, 1:18 pm
Russell Kohn Kohn Law Office

Re: 18 yr old daughter has car in my name

Under California law, the owner of a car has duties to others by reason of the mere fact of ownership, and thus can be liable for negligence, such as in failing to properly maintain the car which causes injury or damages. The owner can also be liable for the negligence of any permissive driver, such as a child, but only to the statutory limits of $5,000 for property damage and $15,000 per person/$30,000 per collision for bodily injury. Also, please note that Nevada law would apply to collisions occurring in Nevada. I am not familiar with Nevada laws which may have higher statutory limits. The car owner is wise to carry adequate auto liability insurance coverage.

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Answered on 3/04/09, 1:53 pm


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