HB5173 Summary

• Amends Section 6-305.2 of the Illinois Vehicle Code to change the liability standard for vehicle theft from "failed to exercise ordinary care" to whether the renter or authorized driver "is not able to return the original keys of the vehicle."

• When a renter cannot return the original keys or if the renter/authorized driver committed or aided the theft, damages are limited to the actual and reasonable costs of the rental vehicle up to its fair market value (previously capped at $2,000).

• Maintains existing liability caps for authorized drivers: $6,000 prior to June 1, 1998; $7,500 from June 1, 1998 through May 31, 1999; $9,000 from June 1, 1999 through May 31, 2000; and increases of $500 annually beginning June 1, 2000.

• Preserves existing protections including requirements that rental companies obtain repair estimates, prohibit advance charges for damages, mitigate losses, and submit claims to the renter's personal insurance carrier when coverage is confirmed.