Understanding Vehicle Collision Liability: A Personal Experience in Michigan
Navigating vehicle accidents on private property can be complex, especially when multiple factors are involved. Here’s a recent experience from a homeowner’s perspective that highlights some important considerations for vehicle owners and property managers.
Incident Overview:
In a residential driveway located in Wayne County, Michigan, an unexpected collision occurred between two parked vehicles. The situation involved a 2017 Ford Expedition, which was stationary at the time, and a 1974 Ford F100 pickup truck driven by a young adult residing on the property.
Details of the Incident:
The young man, who is on his mother’s insurance policy, parked his vintage truck uphill from the Expedition. Upon exiting the vehicle, the truck’s door unexpectedly swung out of its parked position, dislodging from the latch and inadvertently rolling backward. The truck struck the front corner of the Expedition, causing noticeable damage.
Immediate Outcomes:
The Expedition sustained significant damage, including a flat tire, bumper, headlight, and potential issues with aftermarket modifications such as wheels, lift kit, and suspension components. The vintage truck incurred only minor scratches. The homeowner’s insurance policy includes collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible, and the vehicle is valued at approximately $12,000 to $14,000.
Legal and Insurance Considerations:
A key question arises: Who bears financial responsibility? Since the young driver was out of the vehicle at the time of the rollback, is he at fault? Would homeowner’s insurance policies cover such damage, especially considering it occurred on private property? Alternatively, could this incident be classified as an act of God or an unforeseen accident?
Implications for the Homeowner:
The homeowner expresses concern about the potential long-term financial impact, especially given prior claims related to ice dam damage. There’s also hesitation about filing a claim on the homeowner’s policy, wary of possible rate hikes. If the young driver is found at fault, it could negatively affect his driving record, adding to existing violations.
Repair Options and Future Considerations:
Repairing the Expedition to a safe and roadworthy condition is a priority. While a comprehensive repair to match original specifications is ideal, resource constraints may necessitate more basic fixes, reducing the vehicle’s value and appearance. The homeowner was particularly fond of the Expedition and intended to extend its lifespan without incurring new car payments.
Personal Reflections:
Despite these challenges, the homeowner remains supportive of the young driver and his vehicle projects. This incident underscores the importance of understanding liability,
