Karling v. Budget Rent a Car System, Inc.

Christopher Karling timely appeals a final summary judgment entered in favor of Budget Rent A Car System, Inc., PV Holding Corporation, and Aesop Leasing Corporation, defendants below. The ruling was based upon the finding that the vicarious liability of short-term motor vehicle lessors under Florida’s dangerous instrumentality doctrine is now preempted by 49 U.S.C. § 30106, commonly referred to as the Graves Amendment. Karling alternatively argues that if the Graves Amendment is construed to preempt his suit, it is unconstitutional as exceeding Congress’ power under the Commerce Clause of…