What Can I Do If My Friend Hasn’t Transferred the Vehicle Title?

Question from John, What Can I Do If My Friend Hasn’t Transferred the Vehicle Title?

Answer from AI:

When you sell a vehicle, it’s important to ensure that the title is transferred to the new owner to release yourself from liability associated with the vehicle. If you’ve sold your truck to a friend and signed over the title but your friend has not completed the title transfer, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Understanding the Risks

Not transferring the title can lead to several issues:

• Liability: You may still be held responsible for certain liabilities since the vehicle is legally registered in your name.
• Traffic Violations: Any traffic violations or parking tickets associated with the vehicle could be directed to you.
• Insurance: If the vehicle is involved in an accident, there could be insurance complications.

Steps to Take

1. Notify the DMV: You’ve already reported the tag as lost/stolen, which is a good first step. Make sure to keep a record of this report.
2. Bill of Sale: Hopefully, you created a bill of sale when you sold the vehicle. This document can serve as proof of the transaction.
3. Follow Up with the Buyer: Remind your friend of their legal obligation to transfer the title and the potential consequences of not doing so.
4. Legal Notice: If reminders do not work, you may need to send a formal notice to the buyer, possibly through certified mail, to create a record of your attempt to resolve the issue.
5. Consult with a Lawyer: If the situation does not improve, it may be necessary to seek legal advice to understand your options for compelling the title transfer or protecting yourself from liability.

Legal Implications

The laws regarding vehicle title transfers vary by state. In North Carolina, for example, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) outlines the process for transferring vehicle titles. Failure to transfer a title within a specified time frame can result in penalties for the new owner.

Police Involvement

It’s concerning that the police have not taken action despite the expired tag and your report. Police procedures can vary, but generally, driving with an expired tag can lead to fines or impoundment of the vehicle.

Next Steps

If you have exhausted all other options, you may need to consider the following:

• Small Claims Court: If financial damages occur due to the buyer’s failure to transfer the title, you may be able to seek relief through small claims court.
• DMV Follow-Up: Contact the DMV to inquire about any additional steps you can take to protect yourself and ensure they have recorded the sale and your report of the lost/stolen tag.

Seeking Legal Advice

Since legal situations can be complex and vary greatly, it’s often best to consult with a legal professional who can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your case.

Remember, the information provided here is general in nature and should not be construed as legal advice. Legal outcomes can depend on many factors, including local laws and the specifics of each case.