Can another party sue me for a small car scratch?
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Can another party sue me for a small car scratch?
I and other party was waiting for same parking spot , as soon as it was available I started reversing my car to fit in. Unfortunately he was very close on my left side and as I started moving on reverse slowly 2-3 miles/hour. I touched his car and scratched it slightly (not sure if even he was moving his car). As soon as I bumped his car I realized and stopped. The I said sorry and we argued about parking. I gave him parking spot and parked my car else where. Then he called security and he threatened me to sue (as he is a lawyer). The rangers came because no cop was available, We exchanged our insurance info and took pictures.
Asked on August 1, 2013 under Accident Law, Tennessee
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
If you were at fault--that is, negligent, or careless--in causing damage to his car (e.g. a scratch), he could legally sue you for the cost to repair (e.g. buff and repaint) the damage. Normally, it would not be worth someone's while to do so for very small damage, but if his an attorney, he may be able to do so cost effectively.
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