If you allowed a friend or family member to borrow your vehicle and they were involved in an accident, determining whether you’re entitled to compensation for vehicle damage and other losses can be challenging. Additionally, you may be concerned about whether you’re liable for the other driver’s damages if your friend or family member caused the collision. In this guide, you’ll find answers to these questions, and learn when to contact a car crash lawyer to protect your rights and recover any compensation you’re entitled to.
Am I Liable if Someone Else Crashes My Car?
In Texas, car insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver, so your insurance policy will apply if the person who borrowed your vehicle caused the accident.
However, insurance coverage depends on whether the person had permission to drive your vehicle. If they did, and they were at fault, your insurance policy’s collision coverage will cover the damages up to your policy limits. If they did not have permission or were unlicensed, you may still face liability for the crash, even if you didn’t give permission.
What Should I Do if Someone Borrowed My Vehicle and They Were Involved in a Car Crash?
If you loaned your vehicle to someone and they were involved in an accident, take the following steps:
- Gather evidence such as the police report, and the driver’s contact and insurance information.
- Contact your insurance company to notify them of the accident. Provide only the facts. If your friend or family member caused the accident, your collision coverage will apply. If the other driver was at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for vehicle damage.
- Consult a car accident lawyer to investigate the accident, determine fault, and figure out which insurance policy will apply. A lawyer can also handle communication with your insurance company and the other party’s insurer to protect your rights.
Which Party is Responsible for Reporting the Car Crash?
In Texas, any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 must be reported to the authorities within 10 days. The driver is responsible for informing the police immediately if injuries occur. If the driver is unable to report, the vehicle owner must ensure the accident is documented. This legal requirement aids in official investigations and insurance claims.
Liability and Fault in Texas
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means compensation is reduced based on the degree of fault, and if a party is more than 50% at fault, they are barred from recovering damages.
Handling Insurance Claims
Handling insurance claims starts with filing a claim with the driver’s insurance, as it serves as the primary coverage. If the driver’s insurance is insufficient, you may file a claim with your own insurance for secondary coverage. Understanding the claim process and submitting the required documents is essential for both parties involved.
Impact on the Owner’s Insurance Premiums
Whether your insurance premiums increase depends on several factors, including whether you or your vehicle is deemed at fault. Even if someone else was driving, frequent claims on your policy could lead to a rise in premiums, as insurers may see you as a higher risk.
Seeking Legal Advice
Consulting a car crash attorney after a vehicle accident is crucial, especially if fault is contested or there are significant damages. An attorney can help with complex insurance claims and ensure you receive compensation for damages and injuries.
When to Consult with an Attorney
Contact an attorney when issues such as ambiguous fault, disputed liabilities, or insurance coverage complications arise. A car accident lawyer provides crucial guidance to protect your rights and ensure proper compensation.
Contact Us Today
If you allowed someone to borrow your vehicle and they were involved in an accident, contact Loncar Lyon Jenkins today. Our car accident lawyers offer free legal consultations to discuss your case. During the consultation, we can explore your legal options and determine if you’re entitled to compensation for vehicle damage and other losses. Contact us today to learn more.
