The proposed bill, HB2461, amends Arizona's product liability laws to clarify the obligations of vehicle owners, lessors, and operators in civil actions involving accidents with covered motor vehicles. Specifically, it states that there is no duty for these parties to retrofit vehicles with additional parts or optional equipment unless such components were mandated by federal safety standards at the time the vehicle was manufactured or first sold. Furthermore, any evidence suggesting an obligation to include optional safety components is deemed inadmissible in court.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the aforementioned protections do not apply if the vehicle owner, lessor, or operator fails to comply with any laws or regulations requiring a mandatory recall or retrofit issued after the vehicle's manufacture. It also defines "covered motor vehicle" in accordance with federal law, ensuring consistency with existing regulations. Overall, the bill aims to limit liability for vehicle owners and operators while maintaining accountability for compliance with post-manufacture safety requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-690
House Engrossed Version: 12-690
Senate Engrossed Version: 12-690
Chaptered Version: 12-690