The proposed amendments target how liability is shared between the car-sharing programs, shared car drivers, and car owners. The bill specifies that peer-to-peer car-sharing programs must provide primary insurance coverage and disclose any optional coverages that may be available to drivers. This is intended to clarify when coverage obligations are satisfied, potentially reducing disputes over claims in the event of an accident or damage during the rental period. By establishing clear guidelines, the bill aims to enhance consumer confidence in car-sharing services.
House Bill 640 focuses on amending the insurance requirements for peer-to-peer car-sharing programs in Hawaii. The bill stipulates that during each car-sharing period, the vehicle must be insured under a motor vehicle insurance policy that provides substantial coverage, implying that coverage levels should not be less than $750,000 for bodily injury, property damage, and other related losses. This provides a robust framework to protect users who participate in car-sharing arrangements, ensuring that they have access to necessary insurance during transactions.
Notable points of contention may arise around the liability provisions included in the bill. The bill explicitly states that a shared car owner’s liability can be limited under certain circumstances, which may raise concerns about the adequacy of coverage for drivers involved in accidents. Additionally, while the bill allows counties to set certain regulations on peer-to-peer car-sharing, there may be disagreements regarding the thresholds for such regulations, particularly around the desired standards for insurance coverage.