When we allow friends and family members to drive our vehicles, we trust them to drive carefully and defensively. However, collisions can occur for many reasons and sometimes are completely beyond a person’s control. When an accident occurs while someone else is driving your car, you may wonder what happens next.
Minnesota has specific laws governing car ownership, insurance, and liability. Because of those measures, navigating the aftermath of a wreck can be complicated, especially in cases where you were not driving your vehicle at the time of the accident.
Our trusted car crash attorneys at Milavetz Injury Law, P.A., can handle your case from start to finish, keeping you informed about the legal processes, what to expect, and protecting your rights. Call today at 763-560-0000.
- Who Is Liable if Someone Else Crashes Your Car in Minnesota?
- Understanding Insurance Coverage for Borrowed Car Accidents
- What Should You Do After Someone Else Gets in an Accident With Your Car?
- How Can a Minnesota Car Accident Lawyer at Milavetz Injury Law Help You Protect Your Rights?
- Contact Milavetz Injury Law To Learn Your Options
Who Is Liable if Someone Else Crashes Your Car in Minnesota?
Under Minnesota law, if the car owner lends a vehicle to someone who gets in an accident, the owner is generally responsible for the damages. Thus, the car owner’s insurance is the primary coverage, regardless of who was driving at the time of the incident. However, the insurance of the person driving the car may kick in when the owner’s limits are exhausted.
It is important to note that if the driver did not have permission to operate your vehicle, you may be able to hold them wholly responsible for the crash. However, you must prove they did not have express or implied consent.
Similarly, if your automobile insurance policy explicitly excludes the driver, your insurer can deny coverage.
If the person driving your car caused the accident, this will be considered an at-fault loss for your policy. At-fault losses can raise your premiums, reduce your eligibility for accident-free discounts, and increase your risk score with your insurance. The extent to which the accident impacts your premiums will depend on its severity. Severe crashes with substantial damages will raise your premiums more than minor accidents.
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Borrowed Car Accidents
In Minnesota, the owner of the vehicle’s insurance will cover losses, even if they were not driving their car at the time of the accident. However, if the damages exceed the owner’s policy limits, the driver’s liability insurance can help cover the surplus.
Minnesota has a no-fault insurance system, meaning the automobile owner’s Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, covers medical expenses up to the policy limits, regardless of who caused the accident. Property damage and injuries exceeding PIP limits may lead to a liability claim.
What Should You Do After Someone Else Gets in an Accident With Your Car?
When you discover someone else has crashed your car, you can take the following actionable steps to manage the situation effectively, protect your legal rights, and avoid insurance or liability issues:
Confirm Everyone Is Safe
First and foremost, check for injuries and contact emergency services if necessary. Even seemingly surface-level wounds can be indicators of more severe issues, such as a concussion or internal bleeding.
Get the Full Story From the Driver
Ask for all the details to fully understand what occurred, including how the accident happened, who was involved, where it happened, and whether the police were called. Write down or record all this information to avoid forgetting crucial details.
Notify Your Car Insurance Provider Promptly
You must report the incident to your car insurance company. Timely reporting is essential for coverage.
Speak to a Minnesota Car Accident Lawyer
We understand that the aftermath of an accident can feel overwhelming. That is why we recommend you work with a legal professional for support in navigating your claim, determining liability, and preventing financial or legal complications.
How Can a Minnesota Car Accident Lawyer at Milavetz Injury Law Help You Protect Your Rights?
Milavetz Injury Law, P.A., has extensive experience with auto accident claims, including complex situations involving third-party drivers, insurance disputes, or denied claims. Our legal team has earned national honors, including the Best Law Firms 2024 Edition, Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and Attorney of the Year.
We have seen great success in the auto collision cases we have taken on. Some notable verdicts and settlements include the following:
- $15.5 million – Truck accident
- $1.4 million – School bus accident
- $1 million – Multi-vehicle collision
- $400,000 – Car accident involving elderly victim
Contact Milavetz Injury Law To Learn Your Options
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident and is unsure of your next steps, call us today. Our compassionate personal injury attorneys can help you navigate an auto crash claim.
Even if someone else was driving your car during an accident in Minnesota, you still have legal options. Contact our law office today to schedule a free case evaluation.
