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Bill

SB 395

Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing Programs - Insurance and Liability

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Gile

SB 395 establishes insurance requirements and liability standards for Maryland's peer-to-peer car sharing platforms to protect owners, renters, and the public.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 49
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Bill Summary · SB 395

Legislative bill overview

SB 395 establishes regulatory framework and insurance requirements for peer-to-peer car sharing programs in Maryland, where individual vehicle owners rent their cars to other consumers through digital platforms. The bill clarifies liability responsibilities, insurance coverage requirements, and operational standards for both vehicle owners and car-sharing platforms.

Why is this important

As peer-to-peer car sharing grows (companies like Turo operate nationwide), Maryland needed to address a regulatory gap: traditional auto insurance often excludes commercial use, leaving gaps in protection for owners, renters, and third parties if accidents occur. This bill provides legal clarity and consumer protections that affect thousands of Maryland residents who participate in car-sharing arrangements.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost impact: Requiring comprehensive coverage may increase participation costs for vehicle owners, potentially reducing platform competitiveness versus traditional rental companies
  • Liability allocation: Disagreement likely exists over whether platform companies should bear primary liability or if responsibility should remain with vehicle owners/renters
  • Regulatory burden: Small individual operators may face compliance challenges, potentially favoring larger platforms that can absorb regulatory costs
  • Insurance industry concerns: Traditional auto insurers may oppose requirements that shift coverage obligations onto peer-to-peer platforms rather than individual policies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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