If I lend someone money to cover their financial liability for an accident, can I in any way also be held liable financially?
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If I lend someone money to cover their financial liability for an accident, can I in any way also be held liable financially?
My brother was the driver in a car accident that resulted in the injury of a roadside worker. My brother has asked me to loan him some money to cover some legal fees and some related expenses. If I loan him the money, does that then give the injured party any legal recourse to go after my assets if a civil suit is initiated? Similarly, does it give my brother’s attorney any legal recourse to go after my assets for any further legal fees due?
Asked on November 14, 2015 under Accident Law, Maryland
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
No, lending someone money for legal fees resulting from an accident does not make one liable to anyone else, including the person(s) injured in the accident or the attorney (if the attorney isn't paid in full). Just make sure that you don't sign anything agreeing to pay for any losses, damages, or costs, or guarantying the legal fees; you can make yourself contractually liable for other's debts, but if you don't do so, you should not be liable.
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