Spouses Emilio Mangaron, Jr. v. Hanna Via Design & Construction

Summary

This case involves the application of the registered owner rule in motor vehicle liability. Spouses Mangaron sued Hanna Via Design and Construction for vicarious liability after their vehicle was hit by an Isuzu truck, causing serious injuries. The Supreme Court affirmed that the registered owner of a vehicle, not the actual owner or operator, bears primary liability for accidents involving that vehicle. Since Power Supply, not respondent Hanna Via, was the registered owner, the complaint against respondent was properly dismissed. The Court emphasized that motor vehicle registration serves to fix definite liability for public protection, allowing accident victims to identify responsible parties without rigorous investigation. The registered owner rule prevents liability avoidance while protecting public interests, though the actual owner may seek indemnification through cross-claims.