Texas House Bill HB3051

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to damage to a motor vehicle caused by the vehicle being flooded.

Impact

The enactment of HB 3051 will result in amendments to the Transportation Code, specifically adding definitions that relate to the handling of flooded vehicles. One key change involves the notation on salvage titles. Vehicles classified as 'flooded' due to the specified damages will require a specific notation on their titles, ensuring that future buyers are aware of the vehicle's history. This measure aims to enhance transparency for consumers in the used vehicle market, potentially mitigating the risks associated with purchasing a vehicle that may have been damaged by flooding.

Summary

House Bill 3051 addresses damages to motor vehicles that occur due to flooding. It defines 'flooded' as a situation where a vehicle is submerged in water that is high enough to enter the passenger, trunk, or engine compartments and contact the electrical system or where an insurance claim has been paid and possession of the vehicle is taken by the insurer. This bill seeks to provide clarity on how flooded vehicles are identified and classified under Texas law, particularly in relation to salvage titles for vehicles that suffer such damages.

Contention

While the bill predominantly outlines necessary amendments to existing statutes for clarity, it may face scrutiny regarding its implementation and the adequacy of its definitions. Concerns could arise about how insurance companies classify flood-damaged vehicles and how the process of titling is managed to prevent fraud. There may also be discussions about the responsibilities of vehicle sellers to disclose flood-related damages and how this aligns with broader consumer protection laws. Some stakeholders could argue about the need for additional measures to protect consumers against unreported flood-damaged vehicles.