Lending your car to a friend or family member only to receive a call about an unexpected accident can be shocking. In Utah, car insurance typically follows the vehicle rather than the driver. This means that if your friend or family member was involved in an accident while driving your vehicle, the resulting property damage would be covered under your vehicle’s insurance policy. These cases can be frustrating and complex, making it essential to have an experienced car accident attorney on your side to protect your rights and ensure you understand your legal options.
At Feller & Wendt, our attorneys are dedicated to helping navigate Utah’s intricate insurance laws while safeguarding your interests. We are committed to personalizing our approach to every client’s unique needs and will work with you to determine the best path forward for your situation. When you partner with us, you can trust your attorney to do everything they can to achieve a favorable outcome for your case.
Does Insurance Follow the Car or the Driver After a Utah Accident?
In Utah, property damage car insurance follows the vehicle rather than the driver. When you allow someone else to drive your car, you also let them borrow your insurance coverage. In other words, if your friend or relative causes an accident, your policy will be used to compensate the victim for the damage to their vehicle. You will also be responsible for the impact of any accident on your deductible or premiums. However, this rule only applies to those you allow to drive your car. If your vehicle was taken without your permission, the driver would be held liable for any damages they caused.
Drivers are also required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance in addition to property damage insurance. PIP insurance follows the driver. Because Utah is a no-fault state, your friend or family member’s own insurance policy would compensate them for their injuries regardless of who caused the accident.
Steps to Take After Someone Else is in an Accident in Your Vehicle
Because these accidents can be so legally dense, it is vital to take action to protect your rights. After reporting the accident to the police, consider taking the following steps:
- Review your insurance policy: It is essential to understand the terms of your coverage before reporting the accident to the insurance company. Most of the information you need should be on the declaration page of your policy.
- Document the accident: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and ask your friend or relative for as many details they can remember about how it occurred. Documenting the accident can help you protect your rights when dealing with the insurance company.
- Speak with an attorney: A skilled attorney can help you understand the details of your policy and how the accident may impact your coverage in the future. They can also negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to protect your rights.
The talented attorneys at Feller & Wendt understand how overwhelming Utah’s insurance laws can be and will work with you to determine your next steps.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney at Feller & Wendt
In the confusing aftermath of a car accident, where insurance coverage can be a puzzle, you deserve to have a fierce advocate in your corner. At Feller & Wendt, our team of seasoned attorneys is committed to helping you through your legal challenges. We’re well-versed in the nuances of Utah’s car insurance laws and are ready to assist you.
Schedule your free consultation today by calling us at (801) 499-5060 or by filling out our online contact form.
