Legal Question in Insurance Law in Pennsylvania

car accident

My son allowed a friend to drive my car. The friend had a accident with the car, $1,500 damage. I don't have collision on the car. The friend doesn't want to pay. Is he legally responsible to pay for the damage?

Car is regisiter in Pa, the accident happened in Fl. (Boys are friends at college in FL)


Asked on 2/24/07, 9:40 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

John Jackson Law Office of John A. Jackson, P.C.

Re: car accident

Yes, he would be responsible unless your or your son�s negligence helped cause the accident (did not fix the breaks). If the friend also caused damage to another person�s car, you could be responsible for those damages. Take him to small claims court.

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Answered on 2/24/07, 9:50 am
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: car accident

The friend is generally liable for reparations to the vehicle. Even if you had insurance on the car the friend would still be liable. If the friend was "at fault" the insurance company would have the alternative to pursue him/her for the damages. The insurer protects the policy holder against loss due to damage to the insured vehicle. Insurers do not protect third parties.

Hope that makes sense. (I also hope your son has learned at least two lessons from this incident.)

Regards,

Roger

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Answered on 2/24/07, 2:01 pm


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