If you are considering loaning your car to someone, you might want to think twice. If that person gets into or causes an accident, the fact that you loaned them your car can turn even an annoying little accident into a big hassle.
If a friend borrows your car
In most cases, if you have loaned your car to someone, your car insurance should cover an accident. If they have their own insurance, there may be some question as to which policy will apply. If it is a family member who often drives your car but is not specifically a named driver on your insurance policy, your insurance company might try to fight it if you make a claim.
If your kid borrows your car
You are most likely liable for any damages your child causes while driving. There may be different situations, but they all mean the same thing: if you loan your child your car when you know they shouldn’t be driving you are liable; if you own a “family car” that everyone uses you are responsible for negligent driving by anyone who uses it; and, if you have signed a minor’s driver’s license application, you are legally responsible for their negligent driving.
If an unfit driver borrows your car
In this type of case, it has to be proven that you knew the person you loaned your car to was not fit to drive. An “unfit” driver may be someone who is drunk, too young to drive, too old to drive, or who has a history of unsafe driving. “Unfit” can also mean someone who you know has an illness that could affect how they drive.
There are times when a good friend or family member just has to borrow your car – it happens. However, if they are in an accident, things can get messy as far as whose insurance will cover what. If you need help navigating the waters after a car accident, call Laurie Robbins, an experienced attorney who knows how to advocate for her clients. Call for a consultation in the Atlanta office today, at 404-252-8117.