If my son has an accident in a car that is registered to me and insured in my name, can I be held liable for costs that exceed coverage?

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If my son has an accident in a car that is registered to me and insured in my name, can I be held liable for costs that exceed coverage?

My son is 18 and on the policy.

Asked on November 3, 2015 under Accident Law, New Jersey

Answers:

S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 8 years ago | Contributor

If your son is at fault in the accident, you will be liable because you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
In addition to liability for property damage (cost of repairs to the other vehicle), you will also be liable for the personal injury claims of the occupants of the other vehicle that was not at fault in the accident.  Your liability on the personal injury claims will include the medical bills, pain and suffering (an amount in addition to the medical bills) and wage loss.
If the case is NOT settled with your auto insurance company, you will be sued for negligence.


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