Opinion
No. 566031
January 23, 2004
MEMORANDUM OF DECISION RE MOTION TO STRIKE
The recent case of Matthiessen v. Vanech, 266 Conn. 822 (2003), holds that Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec 52-183 does not abrogate the common-law rule that the owner of a motor vehicle is not vicariously liable for punitive damages resulting from the operator's reckless operation of the vehicle. In addition, it is clear that Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 52-182 does not create substantive rights. Hunt v. Richter, 163 Conn. 84, 89-90 (1972). See also the newly revised Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec 14-295, effective October 1, 2003.
The motion to strike is granted as to Counts Five and Six and their corresponding prayers for relief.
ELAINE GORDON, JUDGE