It is a very common scenario in which you lend your vehicle to a friend or family member to run some errands since their car was unavailable. However, if the car borrowed were to be involved in an accident, there could be legal implications that you have to deal with. Understanding your options while dealing with such property damage or injuries is important as it can affect the compensation you are entitled to receive. The car accident lawyers at Ellis Law have some additional information if this situation applies to you or a family member.
Determining if the car or the driver is covered by the insurance
Auto insurance policies usually outline details on who is covered when driving the car and who isn’t. Some policies also explicitly state if the insurance will cover any person driving your car or if it covers no one besides you. Additionally, auto insurance in some states covers the damages to a vehicle involved in an accident regardless of the driver. All these factors determine if you can reimburse damages from your insurance coverage.
Comprehensive Coverage and Liability Coverage
The common comprehensive insurance policy covers the owner’s family by presuming they have the permission to drive the car irrespective of their name being listed on the policy. However, if the driver did not have prior permission of the owner to drive the vehicle, insurance companies may deny claims.
Liability coverage differs from comprehensive coverage in that it is for the driver and not the car. This liability insurance generally covers the medical expenses sustained by the driver in the case of injuries, and the damages caused by the driver to other vehicles or property. The terms and conditions of the insurance policy determine the liability coverage for any claims.
What happens if you do not have auto insurance coverage?
If your car is involved in an accident and you do not have any auto insurance, you can claim compensation for the medical expenses and property damages by suing the driver and owner of the other vehicle. Similarly, the opposite party can also sue you if you are not covered by any auto insurance. If both parties do not have assets to pay for damages and expenses then the lawsuit does not have enough value. Most states require vehicle owners to have uninsured motorist insurance that can support you in receiving reimbursement in a situation that the person driving your car is uninsured, and the other party also does not have valid insurance.
How can a good car accident lawyer help you?
Insurance coverage issues are usually very complicated as the language of insurance policies can be confusing and challenging. If you have let someone to drive your car that is involved in an accident, the best way to understand your legal options to receive reimbursement is by contacting an auto accident attorney who can provide you the proper information to protect you and the person you allowed to drive your car. Different insurance policies have different limitations, and an experienced lawyer will objectively handle your case with the insurance company.
