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I bought a used car in Texas from a friend. I signed the ...

Sent to Legal Experts November 10 03:13 AM

I bought a used car in Texas from a friend. I signed the title and was attempting to register the car, but also purchased liability insurance in the interim. He lossed the title and could not find it. After waiting on the title I decided never to register the car, and subsequently sold any interest in the vehicle to another buyer. I typed a transfer of ownership paper and had them sign it until the original title could be found or replaced. I also got the form notarized. Unfortunately that person was involved in a hit and run accident where I think there was only personal property damage. Can I be held legally liable for this accident?

 

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San Antonio, Texas

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Nothing, no criminal charges or civil charges have been filed against me, although the "last registered owner" has been dealing with the issue. I am assuming that since I only signed the title and never registered the vehicle he is the liable party? If not does my subsequent sale of the vehicle release me?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $30
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November 10 4:41 AM (1 hour and 28 minutes and 35 seconds later)
         
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Hi Charles.

From what you have stated, there does not appear to be any legal change of ownership of this vehicle.

1) you bought the car from a friend, and signed the title. Wouldn't the friend sign off on the title too? The title or "pink slip" is the official document used for transfer of title. Your friend lost it, and should have requested a new form at least for for temporary title transfers. This was not done. No legal transfer took place between you and your friend.

2) What you used to sell any interest to another buyer is not a legal document that the DMV will accept. You had essentially only a bill of sale, so no transfer of title to this third party occurred.

3) Lastly, since there was no registration change and no title change, the DMV will only show your friend as the registered owner and holder of the title. To verify this, just go to the DMV and run a check.

I do not see anyone taking ownership of the vehicle from your friend based on what you presented. Your friend may be liable, but that gets confusing, and does not apply you. As far as you are concerned, you never officially owned the vehicle. I am surprised you even were able to get insurance on the vehicle. But insurance companies have never been known to turn down money.

If you feel I have given a complete answer, and you are satisfied with my answer, please press the GREEN ACCEPT button. Feedback and bonuses are always greatly appreciated!

Regards,

Mike

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November 10 8:05 AM (3 hours and 23 minutes and 43 seconds later)
         
I may have follow up questions later and would like to use your services. Is that possible using just answer?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Info Request
November 10 8:18 AM (13 minutes and 31 seconds later)
         
Hi Charles,

Actually, Justanswer is the only way to contact me. We are not allowed to give out our private information per the justanswer Terms of Service. You can always use the request an expert if you have other questions. (I'm on the west coast and up late as you can tell). I am about to call it a "night," but you can find me here usually every night/early morning.

Best of luck...

Regards,

Mike

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P-Leagle -- Paralegal -- 100% Positive Feedback on 611 Legal Accepts
A.A. Paralegal Studies Experience in Real Estate,Internet Law,Contracts,Tax & Biz Startup,DUI
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