Accidents happen when you least expect them, and sometimes, it’s not even you behind the wheel. If someone else was driving your car and got into an accident, you might be wondering:
- Who is responsible for the damages?
- Will my insurance cover it?
- What if the driver wasn’t at fault?
If you’re in Miami, understanding how insurance works in Florida is crucial—especially when it comes to who pays for what. A Miami Car Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm can help you navigate your rights and protect you from unexpected liability.
Does My Car Insurance Cover Another Driver?
Yes, in most cases, your car insurance follows the vehicle—not just the driver. That means if you loaned your car to someone with permission, your insurance policy is the primary coverage if they get into an accident.
Here’s how it typically works:
🔹 Your car, your policy: If someone else causes an accident while driving your car, your insurance pays first (up to your policy limits).
🔹 Their insurance may help: If damages exceed your coverage, the driver’s insurance (if they have one) may step in as secondary coverage.
🔹 No insurance? You’re on the hook: If the driver doesn’t have their own insurance, you could be personally responsible for damages beyond your policy limits.
🚨 Important: Florida is a no-fault state, meaning each driver’s insurance covers their own injuries—but this doesn’t apply to vehicle damage or liability claims.
What If the Driver Wasn’t at Fault?
If another driver caused the crash, the at-fault driver’s insurance should pay for the damages. However, things can get complicated if:
✔️ The other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
✔️ The insurance company refuses to pay.
✔️ There is a dispute over who was at fault.
In these cases, having uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can protect you from out-of-pocket expenses. If the insurance battle gets messy, a Miami Car Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm can negotiate with insurers and fight for compensation.
What If the Driver Didn’t Have Permission?
🚨 If someone took your car without your consent, you may not be liable!
If the driver was unauthorized (e.g., a friend took your car without asking, or it was stolen), you might not have to pay for damages. However, your insurance company may require proof that the driver was not permitted to use your car.
🔹 If your car was stolen – You are not responsible for damages, but you must file a police report.
🔹 If the driver lied about having permission – You may need to prove you did not willingly let them drive.
🚨 Exception: If the driver is a household member (like a spouse or teenager), your insurance may still apply, even if you didn’t explicitly allow them to drive.
What If the Driver Was Drunk or Reckless?
🚨 Be careful who you let drive your car!
If the driver was:
❌ Drunk or impaired – You could be held liable for negligence if you knowingly let an intoxicated person drive.
❌ Reckless or unlicensed – Your insurance company may deny coverage if you knowingly allowed someone who wasn’t qualified to drive.
If the accident leads to a lawsuit, a Miami Car Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm can help defend your case and limit your liability.
Steps to Take If Someone Crashes Your Car
🚨 If someone else crashes your car, follow these steps immediately:
1️⃣ Ensure Safety First – Make sure everyone is okay and call 911 if needed.
2️⃣ Report the Accident – The driver should file a police report and exchange information.
3️⃣ Notify Your Insurance – Contact your insurer ASAP to start the claims process.
4️⃣ Gather Evidence – Take photos, videos, and witness statements.
5️⃣ Consult a Lawyer – If there are injuries, disputes, or legal concerns, contact a Miami Car Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm to protect your rights.
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself from Liability
If someone else crashes your car, insurance will usually cover the damages—but complications can arise depending on fault, permission, and policy limits.
Striving to be the best car accident lawyer in Miami, Jonathan Perazzo, personal injury attorney and founder of the Perazzo Law Firm, understands that the moments after a car accident that leads to injury, can be daunting for car accident victims. That is why, it is fundamentally important to contact a trusted and dedicated car accident lawyer in Miami following an accident.
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