SB279 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Paul Bussman

Republican

Co-Sponsor

Phillip W. Williams

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Motor vehicles, guest statute, repealed, relating to motor vehicles and limiting liability for the injury or death of a guest under certain conditions, Sec. 32-1-2 repealed

Summary

The bill repeals the guest statute that limited liability for injuries to people riding in a motor vehicle, removing immunity for owners and operators.

What This Bill Does

It repeals Section 32-1-2, which previously prevented liability for injuries or death to a guest unless payment was received or there was willful or wanton misconduct. After the effective date, vehicle owners and operators could face liability for guest injuries or deaths in more circumstances. The change applies prospectively and does not affect acts or injuries that occurred before the effective date. The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval (May 1, 2012 in this case).

Who It Affects

• Vehicle owners, operators, or others responsible for operating a motor vehicle: may be liable for injuries or death of a guest in more situations, not limited by payment or willful misconduct.
• Passengers/guests in motor vehicles: lose the prior immunity and could potentially pursue damages from the owner/operator for injuries or death.

Key Provisions

• Repeals Section 32-1-2, removing the guest statute that limited liability for injuries to a guest in a motor vehicle.
• Provides that the repeal applies prospectively and does not affect acts or injuries occurring before the effective date.
• Sets the effective date as the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval (May 1, 2012).

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Motor Vehicles