Understanding Vehicle Damage in Non-Collision Incidents: A Michigan Case Study
Navigating vehicle insurance claims can be complex, especially in situations involving accidental damage caused by unoccupied vehicles. Let’s explore a recent scenario to shed light on how such incidents are typically handled, particularly within the context of Michigan’s insurance landscape.
Scenario Overview
A homeowner in Wayne County, Michigan, experienced an unexpected collision involving two parked vehicles in their driveway. The homeowner is single, engaged, and lives with their partner and her son. The 20-year-old son, driving his vintage 1974 Ford F100 truck—a project vehicle that is licensed and insured—was parked uphill in the driveway when the incident occurred.
Details of the Incident
While the son was outside the vehicle, he exited the truck after parking it. At that precise moment, the truck unexpectedly rolled backward out of gear, striking the front corner of the homeowner’s 2017 Ford Expedition. The event was captured on security camera footage, confirming the son was out of the vehicle at the time of the accident.
Extent of Damage
The Expedition sustained notable damage, including a flat tire, bumper damage, a compromised headlight, and potential harm to aftermarket wheels, tires, lift kit, and A-arm components. The vehicle is valued approximately between $12,000 and $14,000 and is fully paid off. The homeowner has an enhanced collision insurance policy with a $1,000 deductible. Based on initial assessments, repair costs are likely to exceed the policy deductible, emphasizing the importance of proper insurance coverage.
Liability and Insurance Considerations
A key question arises: Is the driver responsible for the damage despite being outside the vehicle? Typically, liability may still fall on the vehicle owner or driver, depending on circumstances and insurance policies. Michiganders often grapple with whether such incidents should be filed under homeowners or auto insurance. Generally, damage caused by a vehicle—particularly when it involves movement—even if unoccupied at the moment—may be more appropriately addressed through auto insurance, especially if the vehicle is registered and insured.
Implications for Homeowners and Auto Insurance
Filing a claim could potentially impact insurance rates, especially if the driver has multiple at-fault incidents. In this case, the son has a history of two at-fault accidents since age 16, with two occurring this year. Given this history, the financial implications of an insurance claim could have longer-term consequences.
Repair Decisions
Considering the extent of damage, repairs could be performed
