What Happens When an Accident Involves a Borrowed Vehicle?

Imagine you’re driving a friend’s car in Nebraska, enjoying the open road, when suddenly, an accident occurs. In this situation, questions about liability and insurance coverage naturally arise. Understanding how Nebraska law handles accidents in borrowed vehicles is essential for your protection and peace of mind.

At Knowles Law Firm, with over 55 years of experience and a history of securing multi-million dollar settlements, we are well-equipped to guide you through the complexities of such cases. If you are involved in an accident with a borrowed vehicle, our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the legal landscape and pursue the compensation you deserve.

How Does Insurance Coverage Work When Driving a Borrowed Vehicle in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, auto insurance typically follows the vehicle rather than the driver. That means that if you have permission to drive someone else’s car and are involved in an accident, the car owner’s insurance policy generally serves as the primary coverage. However, this coverage is contingent upon the owner’s consent and the specifics of their insurance policy.

It’s important to note that if the damages from the accident exceed the car owner’s insurance policy limits, your auto insurance may be called upon to cover the remaining costs. This secondary coverage depends on the terms of your policy and whether it includes provisions for driving non-owned vehicles. Therefore, reviewing your insurance policy to understand the extent of your coverage in such scenarios is advisable.

Who Is Liable in an Accident Involving a Borrowed Vehicle?

Liability in accidents involving borrowed vehicles can be complex and depends on various factors. Primarily, the driver operating the car at the time of the accident is responsible for their actions and any resulting damages. However, the vehicle owner may also be liable, especially if they knowingly allowed an unfit or unlicensed individual to drive their car.

For instance, if a car owner permits someone without a valid driver’s license or with a history of reckless driving to use their vehicle, and an accident occurs, the owner could be held liable under the legal doctrine of negligent entrustment. This principle holds vehicle owners accountable for entrusting their vehicle to someone they knew or should have known was likely to operate irresponsibly.

Also, Nebraska recognizes something called the “Family Purpose Doctrine”. This doctrine states that the “head of the family” can be held liable for accidents caused by family members while driving a family owned vehicle for a family purpose. This doctrine can be used to hold parents responsible when a child, minor or otherwise, causes an accident and does not have sufficient insurance coverage for all the damages caused.

What Steps Should You Take After an Accident in a Borrowed Vehicle?

If you are involved in an accident while driving a borrowed vehicle, taking the proper steps immediately can help protect your rights and support any future insurance or legal claims. Acting swiftly and efficiently is key to ensuring a smoother claims process and gathering valuable evidence.

After an accident in a borrowed vehicle, follow these steps:

• Ensure safety: Check for injuries among all parties involved and seek medical attention.
• Notify authorities: Contact local law enforcement to report the accident, mainly if there are injuries or significant property damage.
• Exchange information: Collect names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information from all drivers involved.
• Document the scene: Use your cellphone to capture videos of:
  • The location of vehicles after the collision before they are moved
  • The condition of the vehicles involved
  • The condition of all parties involved.
• Identify witnesses: Obtain the name, phone number, and address of any witnesses who may provide an objective account of the incident.
• Check for security cameras: Look around the accident scene for security cameras that may have recorded the collision.

After addressing immediate safety concerns, inform your insurance company and the vehicle owner’s insurer about the accident. Prompt reporting can help streamline the claims process and meet insurance policy requirements.

Contact Knowles Law Firm if You Have Been Injured in a Borrowed Car Accident

If you are in an accident while driving a borrowed vehicle, understanding your insurance coverage, liability, and the necessary steps to take is essential. When managing insurance claims or potential legal challenges, knowing your rights and responsibilities can make a significant difference in your case.

At Knowles Law Firm, our experienced attorneys are ready to help you through this challenging situation. Contact us today at (402) 431-9000 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We provide the guidance you need to pursue fair compensation and protect your interests.