Massachusetts § 85B - Action for consequential damages; presumption of automobile owner's responsibility
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 85B — Action for consequential damages; presumption of automobile owner's responsibility, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 85B. Action for consequential damages; presumption of automobile owner's responsibility
Section 85B. In any action to recover the consequential damages specified in section thirty-four A of chapter ninety, arising out of an accident or collision in which a motor vehicle, as defined in sections one and thirty-four A of chapter ninety, was involved, such motor vehicle if registered in the name of the defendant as owner at the time of such accident or collision shall be presumed to have been then operated, maintained, controlled or used by and under the control of a person for whose conduct the defendant was legally responsible, and absence of such responsibility shall be an affirmative defence to be set up in the answer and proved by the defendant.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 85B
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 85B cover?
Section 85B ("Action for consequential damages; presumption of automobile owner's responsibility") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 85B?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 85B" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 85B apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.