Navigating Vehicle Collisions in Your Own Driveway: What You Should Know

Accidents can happen in the most unexpected places, and for one engaged individual, a recent incident in their own driveway has sparked a dilemma regarding liability and insurance options. Let’s break down the situation and explore the available choices moving forward.

The Incident

Recently, a parked 2017 Ford Expedition found itself at the mercy of a rolling vehicle—a 1974 Ford F100 truck being driven by the homeowner’s fiancée’s son. While the young man, a 20-year-old with his own insurance policy, exited his beloved project truck after parking it on an incline, an unfortunate series of events unfolded. Just as he closed the door, the truck slipped out of park and rolled backward, colliding with the front corner of the Expedition.

Assessing the Damage

Surveillance footage clearly shows that he was out of the vehicle at the time of the incident, raising questions about liability. The damage to the Expedition is significant: a flat tire, a compromised bumper, and potential issues with its aftermarket components. In contrast, the F100 sustained only a superficial scratch. With the Expedition’s value estimated between $12,000 and $14,000 and a deductible of $1,000 for collision coverage, the costs of repair could exceed this threshold.

Who Is At Fault?

As the homeowner contemplates their next steps, they face a critical question: Who is liable for the damages? While it’s clear that the young driver was technically in control of the truck when it moved, the circumstances surrounding the incident complicate matters. Could this be classified as an “act of God,” or is it entirely the driver’s responsibility? The ambiguity of the situation could lead to significant financial implications, especially considering the young driver’s history—this incident would mark his third at-fault accident since turning 16 and his second this year.

Insurance Considerations

With a history of a prior claim related to ice damage on the house, the homeowner is understandably hesitant to file a homeowners insurance claim, fearing potential rate increases. Could it be better to absorb the costs, repair the vehicle on a limited budget, or resort to filing a claim through auto insurance instead?

The Emotional Impact

This unfortunate incident has also taken an emotional toll. The homeowner has kept the Expedition in excellent condition, enjoying the freedom of no car payments and the hope of maintaining its status as a “nice” vehicle for years to come