If someone uses my car without permission and has an accident, am I legally responsible for damages?
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If someone uses my car without permission and has an accident, am I legally responsible for damages?
Asked on January 2, 2015 under Accident Law, Illinois
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
If they truly used it without your permission--that is, they *stole* it--then you are not liable. But to use this defense, you have to back it up--that is, you have to report the car as having been stolen to the police. It's not enough that the person may not have asked permission in advance; if you don't report it as a theft, you effectively ratified or retroactivel authorized their use.
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