If I had an accident while I was test driving a car and damaged a new car on the lot, what is my liability?
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If I had an accident while I was test driving a car and damaged a new car on the lot, what is my liability?
The car I was going to get will cost a small fee but the car I damaged will cost the dealer’s total deductible of $2500. I have no insurance. Should I pay the 2500?
Asked on July 18, 2015 under Accident Law, Pennsylvania
Answers:
Gregory Abbott / Consumer Law Northwest
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
Assuming you were at fault in the accident, you are likely to be on the hook for the total amount of the damages, NOT just the dealer's deductible. His insurance company may pay him the amount of damages above the deductible but they will then likely come after you for reimbursement. Worse, in most States, if you have an accident without being covered by insurance, you face having your license suspended (here in Oregon it is for a year) and the insurance company may well have a legal obligation to report you to the DMV or your State's licensing authority.
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