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2021 SESSION
SB 1160 Removal of vehicles involved in accidents; lien of keeper of vehicles.
Introduced by: David R. Suetterlein | all patrons ... notes | add to my profiles | history
SUMMARY AS PASSED SENATE:
Vehicles; liens; abandoned vehicles; removing vehicles involved in accidents. Modernizes and improves enforcement of mechanics’ and storage liens by (i) transferring notification and auction posting requirements to the Department of Motor Vehicles (the Department); (ii) allowing for independent appraisals to establish accurate vehicle values; (iii) expanding vehicle owner searches to other states and requiring the Department to notify owners in those states; and (iv) creating a limited process for relinquishing mechanics’ and storage liens. The bill permits out-of-state requesters to obtain Virginia vehicle information for mechanics’ or storage lien or abandoned vehicle enforcement in their states, and clarifies disposal rights, auction requirements, and titling documentation for abandoned vehicles. The Department is authorized to collect administrative fees to cover the expenses associated with these duties. The bill also provides that an entity acting at the direction of law enforcement or the Department of Transportation to remove a vehicle or cargo after an accident shall not be liable for damages or claims resulting from exercise of authority, provided that the entity acted reasonably.
SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:
Removal of vehicles and cargoes involved in accidents; liability. Provides that an entity acting at the direction of law enforcement or the Department of Transportation to remove a vehicle or cargo after an accident shall not be liable for damages or claims resulting from exercise of authority, unless the entity acted with gross negligence. Current law provides protection from liability for damages or claims resulting from failure to exercise authority, if done in good faith.