If a car registered in my name was involved in an accident but I was not the driver, am I still liable?
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If a car registered in my name was involved in an accident but I was not the driver, am I still liable?
I have not driven the car for some months now. I drive a different vehicle.
However, the old car was driven by someone other than myself and got in a minor
accident.
Asked on September 13, 2016 under Accident Law, California
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
Unfortunately, you are liable for the accident because you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
Your liability would include the property damage (cost of repairs) to the other vehicle not at fault in the accident.
Your liability also includes the personal injury claims of the occupants of the other vehicle. LIability on the personal injury claims includes liability for the medical bills, pain and suffering (an amount in addition to the medical bills), and wage loss.
If the lawsuit against you results in a judgment against you, you can recover the amount by suing the driver of your car for negligence.
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