Understanding Vehicle Collision Responsibility: What Homeowners and Auto Insurance Cover
In an unexpected incident within your own driveway, two parked vehicles collided, raising questions about insurance coverage and fault determination. This situation involves a 2017 Ford Expedition and a vintage 1974 Ford F100 truck, driven by a young adult with a valid license and insurance, but also presents the complexities of liability.
Scenario Overview:
- The Ford Expedition was parked and stationary in a driveway in Wayne County, Michigan.
- The 20-year-old son of the homeowner drove his partially restored truck into the driveway, parked uphill from the Expedition, and exited the vehicle.
- During exit, the truck’s transmission shifted out of park, causing it to roll backward and gently make contact with the Expedition’s front corner.
- The incident was captured on camera, confirming the young man had just exited the truck at the time.
- Damage assessment reveals significant issues with the Expedition, including a flat tire, bumper damage, headlight, and potential harm to aftermarket wheels, tires, lift kits, and suspension components.
- The truck sustained only minor scratches and remains drivable.
Insurance Considerations:
Given that the truck was legally parked and insured, and the driver was out of the vehicle, the question arises: who bears responsibility? Is it the vehicle owner’s auto policy, the homeowner’s insurance, or an act of nature?
Typically, damage caused by a vehicle while it’s parked and unattended falls under the vehicle owner’s auto insurance policy, especially if the vehicle was properly parked and locked. Since the driver was out of the truck and it rolled back unintentionally, liability often leans toward the vehicle’s insurance. However, circumstances such as improper parking or vehicle malfunction could complicate fault determination.
Financial Implications:
The Expedition’s value exceeds $12,000, and repairs are likely to surpass the deductible of $1,000, especially considering aftermarket modifications. Since the vehicle is fully paid off, comprehensive collision coverage should handle the repair costs, depending on policy specifics.
On the other hand, the damage to the truck is minimal, with only superficial scratches—likely proving less costly to repair.
Long-term impacts include previous driving infractions by the young driver, which could influence insurance premiums or liability judgments. Additionally, concerns about potential rate increases from homeowners insurance—stemming from past claims—add to the financial considerations.
Repair Choices and Emotional Value:
While a full repair to factory standards might be costly, a basic safety and roadworthy fix is feasible
