A car accident in Pennsylvania doesn’t have to happen on the highway. In fact, if you back into a parked car in a driveway, that’s technically considered a car accident. While the car might be owned by a friend or a family member, that doesn’t mean you won’t have to deal with the financial consequences.
What happens if you hit a family member’s car?
If you hit a family member’s car in a motor vehicle accident, they could file a claim with your insurance company just like any other driver. To make up for the cost of the settlement, your insurance company will probably raise your rates. You might be able to pay for the repairs out of pocket if the damage was minor. But if the car was seriously damaged in the crash, you may have no choice but to let your family member file a claim.
Depending on your policy, your insurance might cover the damage to your vehicle. You may also be able to get a rental car if you have rental car coverage. However, if you don’t have the right coverage, you might have to pay for your own repairs out of pocket.
If you hit another vehicle that you own, you could either pay for the repairs yourself or file two claims with your insurance company. Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay the deductible first if you choose to go through your insurance policy. You’ll also be held responsible if you hit a car belonging to a stranger, even if they were illegally parked near your driveway. In most cases, the person who was driving the vehicle is at fault no matter where the other car was parked.
What should you do if someone hits your vehicle?
Any type of car accident can result in injuries, even if you were sitting inside a parked vehicle at the time. You could suffer from whiplash, broken bones, spinal cord injuries and even brain damage. You’ll also have to deal with the damage to your vehicle. When you talk to an attorney, they may help you file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company.