If your car was damaged by a burnt vehicle and the owner of that vehicle doesn’t have insurance, you typically have a few options. Firstly, check your own insurance policy to see if you have comprehensive coverage, which generally covers damage to your vehicle caused by a variety of non-collision events, including fire. If you have this coverage, you can file a claim with your insurance company, and they will handle the repair costs, minus any deductible you might have to pay.
If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, or if you’re looking to recover your deductible, you might consider pursuing a claim against the vehicle owner’s personal assets. However, this can be a challenging process, especially if the owner lacks financial resources, but consulting with a legal professional can provide guidance on whether this is a viable option.
In rare cases, if the fire was caused by negligence or was intentionally set, or if there was another party responsible for the initial fire, such as a maintenance issue in the parking facility, you might have a claim against another party. Consulting an attorney familiar with property damage and negligence law may assist you in exploring any potential claims.
Finally, if the damaged vehicle’s owner is uninsured and financially unable to compensate you, some locations offer victim compensation funds or other resources, though availability and eligibility vary significantly. Reach out to your state’s Department of Insurance or another relevant local authority for guidance, as they may be able to provide additional resources or support.
