Understanding Liability and Insurance Implications After a Towed Vehicle Accident at a Service Center
When you entrust your vehicle to a professional shop for routine maintenance—such as tire rotation—unexpected incidents can still arise. A common concern among vehicle owners is whether they are legally responsible if the service provider causes an accident while moving their car, and how this might impact their insurance.
Scenario Overview
Imagine you visit a tire shop to have your truck’s tires rotated. As per standard protocol, you hand over your keys and leave your vehicle in their care, with access restricted to customers. Upon completing the service, the technician attempts to park your truck in the lot but accidentally backs into another vehicle, causing substantial damage to the other driver’s car, including the hood and front panel. Fortunately, your truck remains unscathed. A police report is filed on the scene, and the shop advises you to report the incident to your insurance company for resolution.
Assessing Liability in such Cases
In North Carolina, where vehicle insurance generally follows the vehicle rather than the driver, the question arises: Are you responsible? The general principle is that the entity operating the vehicle—here, the service shop—is liable for damages caused during their handling of your vehicle. Since you entrusted the shop with your car, and they caused the accident while moving it, the shop’s liability insurance should typically cover the damages to the other vehicle.
However, nuances exist. Because your vehicle was not driven by you at the time of the incident, and you were not directly involved, many insurance providers and legal advisors argue that you are not at fault. It’s often the service provider’s insurance that needs to handle the claim. Nevertheless, clarity on liability can depend on local laws and specific circumstances.
Insurance Impacts and Personal Liability
A common worry is whether reporting the incident to your insurance will lead to increased premiums. Generally, because you were not at fault and did not cause the damage, your insurance company will not hold you responsible, and your rates should remain unaffected. Conversely, if your insurance becomes involved and finds fault on your part, there is a possibility of increased premiums.
In situations like this, many vehicle owners choose to work directly with the service establishment to resolve damages, especially if it’s clear that the shop was responsible. This approach can sometimes prevent insurance claims from being filed against you, shielding your premium rates.
Practical Considerations and Next Steps
In the scenario described, the shop has acknowledged responsibility and
