Understanding Vehicle Collisions in Your Driveway: Insurance and Liability Considerations
Dealing with unexpected vehicle incidents can be challenging, especially when they occur on your own property. Recently, a situation unfolded in a Detroit suburb where two parked vehicles in a residential driveway came into contact. Here’s a detailed look into the circumstances and some guidance on navigating insurance claims and liability.
Case Overview
A 2017 Ford Expedition, parked and stationary in the driveway, was involved in a minor collision with a 1974 Ford F100 truck. The truck’s young operator, a 20-year-old who is insured under his mother’s policy, exited his vehicle after parking uphill from the Expedition. As he closed the truck’s door, it unexpectedly popped out of park and rolled backward, striking the front corner of the Expedition. The event was captured on security cameras, confirming that the driver was out of his vehicle at the time of the incident.
Damage Assessment
The Expedition sustained significant damage, including a flat tire, dented bumper, damaged headlight, and potential harm to aftermarket wheels, tires, lift kit, and possibly the suspension A-arm. The vehicle’s current estimated value is approximately $12,000 to $14,000, and it is fully paid off. The insurance policy includes broadened collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible, but repairs are expected to cost more than this deductible.
In contrast, the truck only incurred minor scratches. Since it’s an older project vehicle, its repairs may be limited to cosmetic fixes.
Liability and Insurance Implications
The primary question revolves around fault: does the driver’s act of exiting his vehicle while it was in neutral and unstable lead to liability? Generally, if a vehicle rolls away due to driver negligence—such as leaving it in gear or not applying the parking brake—the driver might be held responsible. Even if the driver was out of the vehicle, a failure to secure the vehicle properly could be seen as contributing to the incident.
In the context of homeowners insurance, typically, property damage caused by a vehicle is not covered under standard homeowner policies. Instead, automobile insurance usually covers such incidents. Since the collision involved two vehicles parked on private property, an auto insurance claim would generally be the first avenue to pursue.
However, complexities arise:
– Was the vehicle properly secured before exiting?
– Could this be classified as an accident or an act of nature?
– Are there previous at-fault incidents that might influence liability considerations?
Financial Considerations and
