Can a MV salesman become personally liable for claims exceeding their surety bond?

A motor vehicle salesman can indeed become personally liable for claims that exceed their surety bond. This is because a surety bond serves as a form of financial security and does not exempt the individual from personal liability for their actions or omissions.

If a claim arises, and the amount exceeds the bond, the surety bond will cover up to its limit. Any additional liabilities beyond this limit would need to be settled by the salesman themselves. This means that if a customer suffers a loss or detriment due to the salesman’s actions—whether due to negligence or other factors—the salesman can be held responsible for that excess amount.

This principle emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct and adherence to legal standards in the role of a motor vehicle salesman, as personal assets could be at risk if claims arise that exceed the bond coverage.