Navigating the Aftermath of an Unusual Driveway Collision: What Are Your Options?
Accidents can happen in the most unexpected places, even in the confines of your own driveway. This recently happened to me, and as I reflect on the situation, I want to share my experience and consider the implications of our options moving forward.
The Incident
I live in Wayne County, Michigan, where my significant other and her son reside with me. While I was parked at home, my fiancé’s 20-year-old son decided to drive his project vehicle—his 1974 Ford F100—up the driveway. After he parked, he stepped out to close the door, but in a twist of fate, the truck shifted out of gear and rolled back, colliding with the front corner of my vehicle, a 2017 Expedition. Fortunately, this moment was captured on our security camera, clearly showing that he was just outside the vehicle when it began to move.
Assessing the Damage
The damage to my Expedition is significant. The vehicle sustained a flat tire, a damaged bumper, various components needing replacement, and potential issues with the aftermarket wheels and lift kit. On the other hand, the F100 merely acquired a small scratch. Given that my Expedition is valued between $12,000 and $14,000 and is fully paid off, I’m grappling with whether to file an insurance claim under my collision coverage, which comes with a deductible of $1,000, or to explore other options.
Fault and Insurance Considerations
The central question is: who is at fault in this scenario? While the young driver was technically outside the vehicle when the accident occurred, does that absolve him of responsibility? Could this fall under homeowners insurance as a random act, or perhaps an “act of God”? Understanding these categories is crucial for determining how to best address the situation financially.
Another layer of complexity arises from the fact that my fiancé has previously filed a homeowners claim. The last claim, which involved significant costs due to ice dam damage, has made us hesitant to consult homeowners insurance again for fear of potential rate increases.
What’s Next?
While we could repair my vehicle adequately for safe roadworthiness, any restoration that would keep it looking anything less than “nice” could degrade its status to that of a “beater.” I’ve taken good care of the Expedition, enjoying the absence of car payments and hoping to keep it in the “nice” category for a
