Court Upholds Graves Amendment on Liability

The New York Court of Appeals has upheld the constitutionality of a federal law, known as the Graves Amendment, that bars claims against leasing companies because of actions of equipment lessees.

The ruling confirmed a lower court decision. A spokesman for the Truck Renting and Leasing Association said the ruling “puts vehicle renting and leasing companies in the strongest position yet to defend against vicarious liability claims.”