In light of the foregoing cases, we conclude that the evidence in this case supported submitting the issue of contributory negligence based on negligent entrustment to the jury. While the driver in this case does not have convictions for reckless driving or convictions that involve the use of alcohol, his convictions nonetheless indicate that a jury should determine whether he is a reckless or incompetent driver likely to cause injury to others. In the span of six years, this driver accumulated three safe movement violations and six speeding convictions. The plaintiff contends that having only one conviction for speeding over sixty miles per hour mitigates the effect of the other five, which are convictions for speeding fifty miles per hour or below. We are not persuaded by this argument.
Speed limits exist to ensure the safety of the driving public.
They are set according to the conditions of the road. Whether a driver exceeds the limit by fifteen miles per hour in a thirty-five mile per hour zone or a fifty mile per hour zone, he endangers those around him. The plaintiff also contends that the defendant did not present evidence that would allow a jury to conclude that the plaintiff either knew or should have known that his son was an incompetent or reckless driver. We again disagree. The owner in this case is the driver's father.