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Warning
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Simple English definitions for legal terms
family-purpose rule
Read a random definition: common-bond doctrine
A quick definition of family-purpose rule:
The family-purpose rule is a legal principle that says if a family member drives a car owned by another family member and causes an accident, the owner of the car is responsible for any injuries or damage. Some states have gotten rid of this rule. It's also called the family-purpose doctrine, family-automobile doctrine, or family-car doctrine.
A more thorough explanation:
The family-purpose rule is a legal principle that holds the owner of a vehicle responsible for any injuries or damages caused by a family member's negligent driving. This means that if a family member causes an accident while driving the owner's car, the owner can be held liable for any resulting harm.
For example, if a father allows his teenage son to use the family car and the son causes an accident due to reckless driving, the father may be held responsible for any injuries or damages caused by the accident.
It's important to note that many states have abolished this rule, so it may not apply in all situations.