Understanding Vehicle Collision Liability in a Personal Driveway: What You Need to Know
Navigating vehicle accidents that occur on private property can be complex, especially when insurance claims and liability are involved. Recently, a situation unfolded in a residential driveway that highlights important considerations for vehicle owners—particularly regarding insurance coverage and fault determination.
Case Scenario:
A homeowner residing in Wayne County, Michigan, experienced an unintended collision involving two parked vehicles on their property. The incident involved a 2017 Ford Expedition, which was parked and stationary, and a 20-year-old individual operating a vintage 1974 Ford F100 truck, which was also parked. According to the account, after the young driver exited the truck—moments before the incident—the vehicle unexpectedly rolled backward, striking the parked Expedition.
Details & Damages:
– The Expedition sustained notable damages, including a flat tire, bumper, headlight, and possible harm to aftermarket wheels, suspension components, and related parts. The vehicle’s estimated value ranges from $12,000 to $14,000.
– The vintage truck incurred only minor surface scratches.
– The driver’s vehicle was registered and insured, and the driver was operating under a valid insurance policy for the vehicle.
Insurance & Liability Considerations:
Given that the driver had exited his vehicle prior to the incident, questions arise regarding liability:
– Is the driver at fault even if he was out of the vehicle at the time?
– Should the homeowner’s insurance cover the damages?
– Could this event be classified as an Act of God or an unforeseen accident?
In this context, liability often depends on specific circumstances such as whether proper safety measures were in place, whether the vehicle was left in gear improperly, and the exact timing of the driver’s exit. Typically, if a vehicle rolls away and causes damage, the driver’s insurance policy would be the primary coverage source, especially if the vehicle was insured and the incident was deemed preventable.
Financial Implications:
The homeowner’s collision coverage, with a deductible of $1,000, is likely to be triggered. Given the extent of damage to a vehicle worth over $12,000, the insurance could be insufficient to cover all repairs, depending on the assessment. Moreover, the driver’s record indicates multiple at-fault incidents, which could impact his insurance premiums and future insurability.
Additional Concerns:
The homeowner expressed apprehension about filing a claim to avoid potential rate increases, a common concern among property owners. They also noted personal preferences for vehicle preservation
