Navigating the Aftermath of an Unfortunate Driveway Collision: What Are Your Options?

Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and sometimes these occur right in our own driveway. Recently, I encountered a rather frustrating situation involving two unoccupied vehicles that collided in our very own space. As a homeowner living with my fiancée and her son, I found myself at a crossroads regarding the best way to handle this incident.

To provide some context, my 2017 Expedition was parked securely in our driveway when my future stepson—a 20-year-old driver on his mother’s insurance policy—decided to maneuver his 1974 Ford F100, a charming project truck still in development. After parking his vehicle uphill from mine, he exited to close the door, inadvertently causing the truck to roll back and strike the front corner of my Expedition.

This mishap was captured on our security camera, clearly showing that he had just stepped out of the vehicle. Unfortunately, the impact caused visible damage to my Expedition, resulting in a flat tire, scuffed bumper, damaged headlight, and potential harm to the aftermarket wheels, lift, and A-arm components. On the other hand, his truck sustained only a minor scratch.

Considering the situation, my Expedition is valued at approximately $12,000 to $14,000 and is fully paid off. With broadened collision coverage and a $1,000 deductible, I’m left to ponder the best course of action for repairs. Living in Wayne County, Michigan, I find myself questioning whether this incident falls under his responsibility despite his brief absence from the vehicle or if it could be classified as an unexplainable act of nature.

Moreover, I must weigh the potential financial repercussions. My fiancée and I are hesitant to file a homeowners’ insurance claim, especially given a previous, costly ice dam incident from five years ago that still stings in terms of our premiums. Unfortunately, if this claim goes against him, it would mark his third at-fault incident since turning 16 and his second this year.

Of course, we could opt to repair the truck to maintain its roadworthiness, but this would mean foregoing body shop quality restoration. I had taken pride in keeping my Expedition in top shape, hoping to enjoy many more years without a car payment while retaining its appeal. Now, it risks losing that status and sliding into the “beat-up” category.

While I genuinely appreciate my future stepson and support his truck adventures, this incident has added