What Happens if Someone Else Drives Your Car and Gets in an Accident?

What Happens if Someone Else Drives Your Car and Gets in an Accident?

It’s common for vehicle owners to let their friends and family drive their cars. However, if someone else gets behind the wheel and gets in an accident, you may wonder who is at fault and how you should approach the insurance claims process.

Usually, car insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. So, if you let someone drive your car and they get in a crash, your insurance coverage will pay the claim based on your policy’s coverage. Someone who you grant permission to drive your car is called a permissive driver, and your insurance usually covers permissive drivers.

However, you must remember that this claim will be recorded on your insurance record, likely increasing your future monthly premiums. So here’s what you need to know if someone drives your car and gets into an accident to know what to expect if you find yourself in this tricky scenario.

Insurance Policies That Will Cover Another Person’s Damages

These two types of insurance coverage will most likely cover your accident:

Liability insurance. This coverage is required in most states and will cover any damage caused to the other driver in a collision. 

Collision coverage. This is usually an add-on covering any type of car damage. This sometimes requires a deductible payment, depending on the insurance carrier.

What if the Person Driving My Car Was Not At-Fault?

If you let someone else drive your car, and they get into a collision due to another driver’s negligence, the at-fault driver’s insurance will cover your damages. However, determining fault can be difficult and often costly, especially as you and the permissive driver grapple with the shock of the impact.

Having an experienced Missouri car accident attorney in your corner is essential to ensure that your case is represented correctly and you receive maximum compensation for your accident. At The Goss Law Firm, we care about your case and are in your corner.

Kansas City Accident Attorneys Who Are By Your Side

Car accidents are shocking and never expected. However, when someone else is behind the wheel of your car, the situation could be incredibly stressful. At The Goss Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling all types of auto accident cases. We will face the insurance companies to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the full scope of the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today by submitting a form below or calling our office at 816-888-5000 for a free legal consultation.