Who is classified as a vehicle owner under Missouri law?

Under Missouri law, the classification of a vehicle owner includes a person holding legal title to the vehicle or a conditional vendee. This means that ownership is not exclusively defined by the purchaser of the vehicle outright but encompasses any individual or entity that has legal ownership or rights to the vehicle.

A conditional vendee refers to someone who is purchasing the vehicle under a financing agreement where ownership may not be fully transferred until all payments are completed. This provision acknowledges various financial arrangements through which a person might control or have a stake in a vehicle without being the outright owner.

The inclusion of legal title holders and conditional vendees reflects the complexities of vehicle ownership, particularly in transactions involving loans or leases. Understanding this classification helps clarify who is responsible for maintaining the vehicle and ensuring it meets inspection requirements as per Missouri regulations.