Title: Navigating Vehicle Damage in a Private Driveway: Insurance and Liability Considerations
When two parked vehicles unexpectedly collide in your own driveway, it raises important questions about liability, insurance coverage, and the best course of action. Recently, I experienced such an incident involving my family’s vehicles, and I want to share the details to help others understand how to approach similar situations.
The Scenario:
I live in Wayne County, Michigan, with my fiancée and her son. My 2017 Expedition was parked in our driveway when her 20-year-old son, driving his ongoing project truck—a 1974 Ford F100—they are insured and licensed— parked uphill from my vehicle. After exiting his truck, which was briefly out of gear, it unexpectedly rolled backward and collided with my Expedition’s front corner.
The aftermath:
– My vehicle incurred significant damage, including a flat tire, bumper, headlights, and potential damage to aftermarket wheels, tires, lift kits, and A-arms.
– The other vehicle only sustained minor scratches.
– Fortunately, there’s clear video evidence showing he was completely out of the vehicle at the time of the incident.
Insurance and Liability Questions:
Given that the other vehicle was stationary and the young man had just exited, who bears responsibility? Is this considered the driver’s fault, even if they were outside the vehicle? Would homeowner’s insurance cover this incident? Or could this be classified as an act of God or a random accident?
Financial Implications:
My Expedition is valued at around $12,000 to $14,000 and is fully paid off. I carry comprehensive collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible. The repairs could easily surpass that, especially considering aftermarket parts and structural components. My primary concern is long-term financial impact—would filing a claim with either auto or homeowner’s insurance be more damaging to my rates? Our previous experience includes a costly ice dam claim years ago, which makes me cautious about potential premium increases.
Liability of the Young Driver:
If the incident is deemed his fault, it could impact his driving record, especially since he’s had multiple at-fault incidents since age 16. This adds another layer of concern, particularly if insurance coverage is involved.
Repair Options:
While we could opt for quick fixes just enough to make the vehicle safe and roadworthy, it wouldn’t restore it to its original condition. The Expedition was a relatively well-maintained family vehicle, and I had hoped to keep it in good shape for a few
