so i(18f) have made a similar post already, but say my mom bought me a car off of FB marketplace, but i run away using that car, what trouble can i get in? and if i WERE to run away as someone who isn’t a minor, what would i need to bring with me?
what do i do?
r/Advice
Comments
Stealing a car could be grand theft depending on what it’s worth. Even if it’s not, it’s still theft.
TL;DR as an adult you shouldn’t get into trouble, just bring some stuff. as a minor you will get in trouble, but rather not if you’re running from abuse.
it depends on whose name is on the car title and registration
if the car is legally in your mom’s name then you don’t own it, and taking it could be considered unauthorized use, theft or joyriding for example.
if it’s in your name however, you have legal ownership, and you’re generally free to go wherever you want. (assuming the law in your country considers you an adult by the age of 18)
but insurance.
if you’re insured under her policy, using the car outside her knowledge could void the coverage or leave her liable for damages.
if you were to run away as a minor you can be reported as a runaway – its a crime for minors but not for adults (at least in the US, Canada and some parts of Europe). police can and will try to find you and bring you home.
if you take the care then its not only theft, but as a minor i’d assume you might not have a license – which means you’re not allowed to drive.
and additionally, if someone helps you (by sheltering you elsewhere) then they can get into legal trouble aswell.
but running away as an ADULT is a totally different story. what you’d need would be:
other than that, you really just need a plan – where are you going, can you find a hostel or a friend somewhere.
however the whole story changes if you run from abuse – that doesn’t make running away legal, but authorities might accept it if you’re in real danger or neglect.
18 is an adult. Adults can’t “run away” it’s called leaving and you can do what you like.
Is the car registration in your name? If so, you own that car. Do what you want.
If you are 18 you are considered an adult.
Take all your legal / identification documents with you; driver licence, proof of age, birth certificate, bank account cards, resume, school certificates, references etc.
Taking a car in your Mother’s name without permission is theft, and there are obviously Police / Court consequences for that.
My brothers ex wife took his vehicle when he was away on holiday. He dropped the charges though.
You’re 18. It’s moving out, not running away. Make sure the car is in your name.
Take all important documents. Birth certificate, Social Security card, ID, passport if you have one all available cash that you have. any bank information that you have. a copy of any diplomas (like your high school diploma) that you have and anything that you want to keep. don’t leave anything that you care about.