When you want to buy a new car, there’s a thrill that comes with taking it out for a test drive. Most drivers love the thrill of trying out a car with a sleek look and a more powerful engine than their current vehicle. But what happens when you get in an accident while test driving a car? Our Augusta car accident lawyers answer this all-important question. Will you share some of the fault and whose insurance gets to pay in such a car crash?
The Augusta car accident lawyers at Ted A. Greve & Associates will help you understand what happens after a car accident during a test drive. You will also get answers about who is liable for damages in such accidents. If you find yourself in such a crash, contact our law firm immediately.
What Happens When You’re Liable for a Car Accident During a Test Drive?
It doesn’t matter which car you were driving during a crash; the insurance company usually investigates. This investigation will help them determine the cause and who is liable. Therefore, if the results show you contributed to the crash or you’re entirely at fault, then you will be held responsible for damages. Additionally, you will receive tickets for any traffic violation you committed while test-driving. There is simply no special immunity attached to test driving a car.
While you’re test driving, your insurance company’s coverage is similar to rental car coverage. Before test-driving any car, it is always advisable to call your insurance company to know the coverage for car accidents during test drives. It’s best to be aware beforehand of coverage under your policy.
Who Pays for Damages When You’re Not at Fault?
The answer to this question varies extensively. Liability in a car accident usually varies and is determined on a case-by-case basis. Many factors require consideration, and if you’re not at fault, you have options available to receive compensation for your losses and injuries.
The At-Fault Party’s Insurance
If investigations show that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident, you won’t be held liable for damages. In such a case, the other party’s insurance carrier is responsible for compensating you for damages. If the at-fault driver is an uninsured motorist, you can still have a claim, but it’s pretty complicated.
Most times, the dealership might have to cover the damages caused by an accident. In addition, for the injuries sustained during the accident, you might have to seek medical care through your health insurance. You could also file a claim through your car insurance. This is even more possible if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Having this type of coverage usually brings peace of mind in situations like this.
Dealer Insurance
Sometimes, it falls to the dealer to pay for your damages in a car accident during a test drive. Car dealerships usually have fleet insurance that covers all their vehicles. This insurance policy also covers the damages that might occur during a test drive. If the party at fault lacks insurance, then the dealer’s fleet insurance would help to cover damages and insurance. Many factors determine how this insurance applies in a car accident case. For example, if the car crash was minor, the dealership might absorb the cost.
Cases of a Liability Waiver
There are times when a dealership asks you to sign a liability waiver before you can test-drive their cars. This liability waiver usually means a transfer of all damage liability to you. Therefore you shouldn’t sign it; most dealerships won’t insist that you do. However, if they do, you should be prepared to walk away or only sign after confirming your coverage under your insurance policy.
Injured in a Test Drive Car Accident? Call an Augusta Car Accident Lawyer Today!
If you suffer injuries in a car accident while test driving a new car, then you should seek legal help immediately. It is essential to know your stand and if you have a valid case to get compensation. However, handling such a case can feel like walking on uneven grounds without legal expertise. That’s why our skilled auto accident lawyers in Augusta are available to help you navigate the case.
Ted A. Greve and Associates have been helping Augusta injury victims for a while. Our clients include those injured in car accidents caused by someone else’s negligence. Our experienced Augusta car accident lawyers are always ready to answer your questions and provide all the legal help you need. You can learn more about what we offer during the free case review.
