Michigan § 257.240 - Liability for use or ownership of vehicle after transfer of endorsed certificate of title; conditions; violation of subsection (2); civil infraction; fine; towing and storage fees.
Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.240 — Liability for use or ownership of vehicle after transfer of endorsed certificate of title; conditions; violation of subsection (2); civil infraction; fine; towing and storage fees., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 257.240. Liability for use or ownership of vehicle after transfer of endorsed certificate of title; conditions; violation of subsection (2); civil infraction; fine; towing and storage fees.
(1) The owner of a motor vehicle who has made a bona fide sale by transfer of his or her title or interest and who has delivered possession of the vehicle and the certificate of title to that vehicle properly endorsed to the purchaser or transferee is not liable for any damages or a violation of law that subsequently results from the use or ownership of the vehicle by another, if the owner, other than a licensed dealer, satisfies the conditions prescribed under subsection (2).
(2) The owner of a motor vehicle, other than a licensed dealer, shall satisfy 1 of the following conditions:
(a) Accompany the purchaser of the vehicle to a secretary of state branch office to assure that the title of the vehicle being sold is transferred.
(b) Maintain a record of the sale for not less than 18 months. As used in this subdivision, "record of the sale" means either a photocopy of the reassigned title or a form or document that includes the name, address, driver license number, and signature of the person to whom the vehicle is sold and the purchase price and date of sale of the vehicle.
(3) A person who violates subsection (2) is responsible for a civil infraction and shall be ordered to pay a civil fine of $15.00.
(4) A person who violates subsection (2) is presumed to be the last titled owner and to be liable for towing fees and daily storage fees for an abandoned motor vehicle.
Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 257.240
What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.240 cover?
Section 257.240 ("Liability for use or ownership of vehicle after transfer of endorsed certificate of title; conditions; violation of subsection (2); civil infraction; fine; towing and storage fees.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. 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 Michigan § 257.240?
A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.240" (Michigan). 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 Michigan law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.
How does Michigan § 257.240 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan 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 Michigan.