Buyers of used cars won’t have to pay previous fines

By The Star Staff

Senator Héctor “Gaby” González has introduced a bill that would protect buyers of used vehicles from being penalized for fines or violations incurred by the previous owner of the car.

“Buying a vehicle should be a safe and transparent process, not a source of uncertainty and risk,” stated Senator González on Sunday. “Citizens who purchase a car in good faith should not face legal consequences for actions beyond their control. It’s time for the system to acknowledge this injustice.”

The issue becomes apparent when new owners are confronted with administrative fines and freezes that predate their purchase, often without their knowledge. “The automatic imposition of penalties without verifying ownership is a serious violation that erodes trust in our institutions,” González added. “With this law, we are reaffirming citizens’ right to fair and equitable treatment.”

The bill’s explanatory statement highlights that many citizens, after acquiring a used vehicle—whether through financing, direct purchase, or legally formalized transfers—find months or even years later that the vehicle has outstanding administrative fines, traffic violations, charges for improper use of the AutoExpreso system, or administrative freezes. In most cases, these charges relate to incidents that occurred before the new owner became the registered owner of the vehicle.

As a result, no driver or owner can be held liable for events that took place outside the period during which they actually owned the vehicle. This will not only alleviate the burden on current owners but also promote a culture of responsibility and fairness in the used vehicle market.

The senator emphasized that the State has the necessary tools to implement this measure. “Technology is available to us. Through the Department of Transportation and Public Works’ systems, we can verify who owned a vehicle at a specific time. This capability is crucial for fairly assigning liability,” he explained.

Moreover, the legislation includes an automatic review mechanism to rectify improperly issued fines, making it easier for citizens to assert their rights. “It’s not just about avoiding unfair penalties; it’s about creating a system where citizens have a voice and can defend their rights without unnecessary obstacles,” González concluded.