Connecticut Negligent Entrustment Attorneys
Negligent Entrustment Accident Lawyer in Connecticut
When someone hands their car keys to a driver they knew — or should have known — wasn't fit to drive, more than one party can be held responsible for what happens next. Moore, O’Brien & Foti holds both the driver and the vehicle owner accountable.
When the Owner Shares the Blame
Negligent entrustment occurs when someone allows another person to use their vehicle while knowing, or having reason to know, that person is unfit to drive. This can include a driver who's inexperienced, intoxicated, or otherwise impaired. If you're injured in Connecticut by a driver who was negligently entrusted with a vehicle, you may be able to hold both the driver and the vehicle owner liable.
Proving a negligent entrustment claim requires showing the vehicle owner knew or should have known the driver posed a risk and let them drive anyway. That can involve the driver's prior driving record, witness testimony, and expert opinions. Our legal team is skilled at building these cases and works diligently to hold every responsible party accountable, not just the driver behind the wheel.
The consequences of a negligent entrustment accident can be severe, resulting in significant injuries and financial burdens. We're committed to compassionate, aggressive representation so you receive full compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
What Connecticut Law Says About Owner Liability
Family Car Doctrine
A Legal Presumption of Authority
Under CGS § 52-182, if the driver was the owner's spouse, parent, or child, the law presumes the vehicle was being used with the owner's general authority — putting the burden on the owner to prove otherwise.
What You Must Show
Knowledge of the Risk
A negligent entrustment claim requires proof that the owner knew, or reasonably should have known, that the driver was unfit — whether from inexperience, a history of impaired driving, or a suspended license.
Filing Deadline
2-Year Statute of Limitations
Under CGS § 52-584, you generally have two years from the date you discover your injury to file a claim — but never more than three years from the date of the accident.
Talk to a Connecticut Negligent Entrustment Lawyer
Call (203) 586-0022 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Moore, O’Brien & Foti is based in Middlebury and represents clients throughout Connecticut on a contingency basis — there's no fee unless we win.
Common Questions About Negligent Entrustment Claims
Can I sue the vehicle owner if they weren't driving?
Yes, if you can show the owner knew or should have known the driver they lent the car to was unfit to drive — whether due to inexperience, intoxication, or another known risk.
What is the "family car doctrine"?
Under CGS § 52-182, if the driver was the owner's spouse, parent, or child, Connecticut law presumes the vehicle was being used with the owner's authority. That shifts the burden onto the owner to prove otherwise, rather than requiring you to prove it from scratch.
What evidence proves the owner knew the driver was unfit?
The driver's prior driving record, witness testimony about their history or behavior, and expert opinions can all help establish that the owner had reason to know the driver posed a risk.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Generally two years from the date you discover your injury under CGS § 52-584, but never more than three years from the date of the accident.