Understanding Vehicle Collisions on Private Property: Insurance Considerations and Next Steps
In a recent incident in a residential driveway in Wayne County, Michigan, two parked vehicles were involved in an unexpected collision. This event raises important questions about liability, insurance coverage, and potential financial implications—especially when the incident occurs on private property.
The Scenario
A 2017 Ford Expedition, parked in the driveway, was struck by a 1974 Ford F100 pickup truck operated by a young adult (20 years old) who is covered under his mother’s insurance policy. The F100 was parked uphill from the Expedition. Upon exiting his vehicle, which was out of gear at the time, the truck unexpectedly rolled backward and collided with the Expedition, causing visible damage.
Details of the Incident
– The young man was outside of the truck when it started to roll, which was clearly captured on security footage.
– The Expedition suffered significant damage, including a flat tire, bumper and headlight damage, and potential harm to aftermarket wheels, tires, and suspension components.
– The F100 sustained only minor scratches.
Insurance and Liability Considerations
Given the circumstances—specifically that the young man was out of the vehicle when it rolled—the question arises: who is responsible, and which insurance policies are applicable?
- Auto Insurance: Since the F100 is insured and licensed, the vehicle’s own policy may cover the damages. However, liability might be complicated by who was controlling or responsible for the vehicle at the time of the incident.
- Homeowners Insurance: Typically, homeowners policies cover damages to personal property and liability for incidents occurring on the premises. However, vehicle damages are often excluded unless specifically included.
- Act of God or External Factors: If mechanical failure or unforeseen circumstances caused the truck to roll, it might be categorized differently, affecting claims processing.
Financial Impact
The Expedition’s value is estimated between $12,000 and $14,000, and it is fully paid off. Damage repair costs are likely to exceed the deductible of $1,000 under the broad collision coverage. Repair options could range from minor fixes to comprehensive restoration, depending on the extent of the damage.
The young driver has prior at-fault incidents, which could influence liability determinations and insurance premiums if a claim is filed. The personal and financial stress is compounded by previous claims on the property, making the decision more complex.
**Next Steps
