“Woe to You [Plaintiff’s] Lawyers”: Church Not Liable for Assault Carried Out With its Van

Per MCL 257.401(1), a vehicle owner “is liable for an injury caused by the negligent operation of the motor vehicle,” provided that the vehicle is being driven with the owner’s consent.

“Negligence” under this provision includes gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct. Hashem v Les Stanford Oldsmobile, Inc, 266 Mich App 61 (2005).

However, “negligence” within the meaning of § 401(1) does not encompass intentional torts. Reece v James, et al, ___ Mich App ___; ___ NW2d ___ (2023) (Docket No.s 362140 and 362151).