Boyfriend in an Accident While Driving My Vehicle...

by Lynn
(Cherry Valley, IL)

My boyfriend was driving my SUV and was in an accident. We were waiting at a red light when he thought he saw a green light and started going, but the green was the arrow for the turn. When he accelerated he hit the driver making the turn. The police officer that handled the accident scene gave him a ticket, so the accident was his fault.

I'm wondering if I have liability in this accident since it was my vehicle? Can the other driver go after me and sue me? Thanks.

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ANSWER for "Boyfriend in an Accident While Driving My Vehicle...":

Lynn (Cherry Valley, IL):

Yes. You and your boyfriend may be jointly and severally liable for the injuries or property damage sustained by the other driver. The owners and drivers of vehicles involved in automobile collisions normally share liability. But the other driver doesn't necessarily have to sue either of you. That's not the way it usually works.

What will probably happen is you and your boyfriend may be contacted by the owner, her insurance company, or her attorney. Because the collision involved only property damage and not personal injures you both really don't have much to worry about.

As long as either one or both of you carries enough insurance to pay for the other driver's property damage you really shouldn't be concerned. If either of you receives a letter regarding the accident simply refer the matter to your insurance company. That's what you pay automobile insurance for.

Your insurance company will take care of the matter entirely. If either of you hasn't had previous car accidents, the matter probably won't affect your insurance rates.

Since laws change frequently and across jurisdictions you should get a personalized case evaluation from an attorney licensed in your state (if you haven't already). Find an experienced local attorney to give you a FREE personalized case review here.


Best of luck,

Law Guy