Understanding Parking Incidents and Insurance Implications: A Case Study from a Residential Driveway
Navigating vehicle accidents that occur on private property can be complex, especially when considering insurance coverage and liability. Recently, a residential resident experienced a collision involving two parked vehicles in their driveway, prompting questions about responsibility and insurance claims.
Case Overview:
The property owner, a single individual living with their fiancée and her son in Wayne County, Michigan, reported an incident where their 2017 Ford Expedition was struck by a vehicle belonging to her 20-year-old stepson. The stepson’s vehicle, a 1974 Ford F100 pickup, was parked uphill from the Expedition. After exiting his truck, which was properly licensed and insured, the vehicle unexpectedly rolled backward, striking the owner’s vehicle. Video footage confirms the son was out of the truck at the time of the incident.
Damages & Valuation:
The Expedition suffered significant damage, including a flat tire, bumper, headlights, and possible damage to aftermarket wheels, a lift kit, and suspension components. The estimated repair cost exceeds $12,000, and the vehicle is fully paid off with broadened collision coverage that has a $1,000 deductible. Conversely, the son’s truck incurred only minor scratches.
Insurance and Liability Considerations:
This situation raises questions about whether the accident falls under homeowner’s insurance, auto insurance, or constitutes an act of nature. Since the son’s vehicle was properly registered and insured, and the incident occurred on private property during a moment of vehicle being stationary, the primary coverage likely falls under auto insurance.
Interestingly, even though the son exited the truck, the incident’s liability may still rest with him, as the vehicle’s unintended movement appears to be a factor. Insurance companies often consider whether the vehicle was properly parked and whether safety measures were in place.
Financial Implications:
From a financial perspective, the homeowner and vehicle owner face recovery costs. Filing a claim through auto insurance could cover repairs, but there is concern about potential rate increases, especially since the individual has a history of prior at-fault incidents. Filing through homeowner’s insurance may not be applicable unless there’s a specific clause covering property damage caused by vehicles.
Repair Approach:
Given the circumstances, repairing the Expedition to ensure safety and roadworthiness may cost less than a full restoration, which would restore its value closer to “like-new” condition. However, current resources and budget constraints are an important consideration, especially since the vehicle holds sentimental value and was maintained meticulously
