Massachusetts § 85C - Action to enforce liability policy or bond; presumption of insured's consent to operation of vehicle

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 85C — Action to enforce liability policy or bond; presumption of insured's consent to operation of vehicle, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 85C. Action to enforce liability policy or bond; presumption of insured's consent to operation of vehicle

Section 85C. In any civil action, under section one hundred and thirteen of chapter one hundred and seventy-five and clause (9) of section three of chapter two hundred and fourteen to reach and apply the proceeds of any motor vehicle liability policy, as defined in section thirty-four A of chapter ninety, by a judgment creditor in any action to recover damages for bodily injuries, including death at any time resulting therefrom, or the consequential damages specified in said section thirty-four A, arising out of an accident or collision in which a motor vehicle, as defined in sections one and thirty-four A of said chapter ninety, was involved, and in any action under section thirty-four G of said chapter ninety on a motor vehicle liability bond, as defined in said section thirty-four A, it shall be presumed that at the time of such accident or collision such vehicle was being operated, maintained, controlled or used with the express or implied consent of the named person insured in such policy or the principal of such bond, and the absence of such consent 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 § 85C

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 85C cover?

Section 85C ("Action to enforce liability policy or bond; presumption of insured's consent to operation of vehicle") 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 § 85C?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 85C" (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 § 85C 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.