In jurisdictions with guest statutes, what is the driver's obligation toward guests?

In jurisdictions that have guest statutes, the driver's obligation towards guests is primarily to avoid gross or wanton misconduct. Guest statutes are designed to limit the liability of drivers who are providing transportation to their guests without payment. Under these laws, drivers are generally held to a lower standard of care compared to that owed to paying passengers.

This means that while a driver must act reasonably and cannot engage in behavior that constitutes serious misconduct, their responsibilities do not extend to ensuring complete safety or avoiding all forms of negligence. The law focuses on a higher threshold of inappropriate conduct—specifically, gross negligence or willful misconduct—before liability is established.

In practical terms, this means that a driver could potentially be held liable if they engage in actions that demonstrate a blatant disregard for the safety of their guests, such as driving recklessly or under the influence of alcohol. Thus, the correct answer accurately captures the essence of the driver's legal duties under guest statutes.