ARGH, MATEY

It is common-sense and the rule of law (yes, for once, the two match) that the owner of a vehicle who gives another permission to use the vehicle remains liable for injuries the borrower may cause.  (In other words, be careful who you lend your car to.)

On the flip side of that coin, the owner remains liable only if the owner gave the other permission to use the vehicle.  Put differently, when it comes to boats, the vessel’s owner is not liable for the acts of pirates.  Fly that Jolly Roger!