What Happens if Someone Else Is Driving My Car and Gets in an Accident?

If you ever wondered, “What happens if someone else is driving my car and gets in an accident?” If so, then the answer is in your insurance policy. Typically, in most cases, car insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. This means that if you’ve given permission for someone else to use your car and they are involved in an accident, your insurance is likely to cover the damages, subject to the terms and limits of your policy. However, there are specific circumstances that could affect coverage, like if the driver isn’t named on your policy or if they were driving your car without your permission.

Car accidents can be very stressful, and the situation can get even more complicated if someone else is driving your vehicle. If this happens in Denver, CO, it’s all about liability and insurance coverage. At Dormer Harpring, we often help Denver residents through these tricky situations.

Will my insurance cover an accident if another driver uses my car?

According to DMV, in most instances, your car insurance will cover an accident even if someone else is driving your car. But there’s more to consider. Auto insurance typically follows the vehicle and not the driver. If you give permission to someone driving your car, and they get into an accident, your insurance may be considered primary. This could include liability to another vehicle and to your own if you carry collision coverage.

However, limits apply. If the damages exceed your policy limit, the driver’s personal auto insurance (if they have one) might act as secondary coverage. To fully understand your coverage, it’s essential to review your policy terms or speak with your insurance company.

Am I Liable If Someone Else Drove My Car and Caused an Accident?

If you let a friend borrow your car and they get into an accident because of their carelessness, you, as the owner, might end up being financially liable. Your insurance provider may require you to pay the deductible, which could also raise your policy premium.

Incidents that cause significant property damage or serious injuries often lead to higher costs and more complex insurance claims. If the expenses exceed your coverage limits, the driver’s insurance may cover some of the costs; however, any additional expenses could ultimately be your responsibility, and in some cases, this might even result in legal action.

Who Is Responsible If Another Person Crashes Your Car?

Determining liability in an accident hinges on who is at fault. If another driver collides with your car, your insurance usually covers the damages initially, while the other driver’s insurance serves as secondary coverage. On the other hand, if the driver of your car is at fault, your insurance usually provides the primary coverage. However, as explained, the driver’s policy could supplement coverage if your policy limits are exceeded. 

It’s worth understanding the concept of “permissive use.” If you give the driver permission to use your vehicle, your policy becomes the primary coverage. If not, and this can be proven, the driver or their insurer may have to handle damages independently. 

What Happens If Someone Takes Your Car Without Permission and Causes an Accident?

Comprehensive insurance covers vehicle theft, including damage to your car if it is recovered after being stolen. This does not, however, cover liability for injuries or damages caused by someone who steals your car. If a friend or family member drives your car without your explicit permission and ends up in an accident, the legal situation could become quite complicated. Your insurer may investigate whether your denial of permission is valid before determining liability coverage. Always report such incidents promptly.

If someone drives your car without your permission and ends up in an accident, their insurance typically provides primary coverage. But you may discover that unless they’re covered, the damages go on your own policy. If they lack their own insurance, your policy could be called upon to make it right. Note that in those cases, general category coverage rates may apply, so be sure to check your particular policy. If your car gets stolen, and the perpetrator gets into an accident, you’re usually not on the hook. But, if your car is recovered, repair could be covered by comprehensive coverage.

Steps to Take If Another Driver Crashes Your Car

Prompt actions in the post-accident scenario can make all the difference when it comes to dealing with the aftermath, including health, safety, legal compliance, and the insurance claim process. Follow these essential steps:

• Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary

The priority should be the safety of all those involved. If someone’s injured, call 911 right now. Even if injuries appear to be minor, getting medical attention is imperative; some conditions may not be immediately noticeable.

1. If it is safe, move the vehicles to the side of the road so they don’t cause further collisions. Use hazard lights and warning triangles or flares if you have them. If the accident is at night, turn on the lights so you don’t get hit as a result of the accident.

• Gather and Note-down Important Information

From legal issues to processing insurance claims, proper documentation is paramount when it comes to dealing with those types of situations. Here are some other examples of those:

• Driver’s Information: The name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance policy information for the person driving your vehicle.
• Other vehicles involved: Names, insurance information, and vehicle make/model for other drivers involved
• Photograph the vehicles, the vehicle damage, traffic signals, skid marks, the condition of the road and the license plates.
• Witness Statements: If there were witnesses, ask if you can obtain signed statements from them, so their contact information is available in the event their testimony is required.
• Notify Authorities: Call The Police.

In the case of even a minor accident, reporting a police report creates an official account that can help answer questions about fault. You must file a report in some states if you were in an accident that resulted in injuries or significant damage to property. You can also get the report number or a printed/report copy for your reference.

• Call Your Insurance Company Immediately.

Notify your insurance provider about the accident right away. Be ready to provide:

• Date, time, location, and parties involved in the accident.
• A summary of what happened and supporting evidence.
• The Police report number (if applicable)

Speak With a Legal Expert.

Legal help could be of assistance to you if your claim is rejected, damages exceed policy limits, or liability is not obvious. At Dormer Harpring, we’re here to offer legal advice and help you explore compensation options. 

Struggling with Insurance Issues After Someone Else Crashed Your Car? Let Us Help—Call Today!

Navigating the complexities of insurance and liability after someone else crashes your car can be overwhelming. That’s where Car Accident Attorney Dormer Harpring comes in. Give us a call at (303) 747-4404 or visit us at 3457 Ringsby Ct Unit 110, Denver, CO 80216. Our team is here to protect your rights.

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• How to Maximize Your Denver Car Accident Settlement
• How to Get a Copy of a Police Report in Denver