Am I responsible for paying for damages to my car that I wasn’t responsible for?
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Am I responsible for paying for damages to my car that I wasn’t responsible for?
The power window on my car went down, but would not come back up. My mom suggested I get a pair of my stepdad’s pliers and try and pull up the window. I told her I didn’t want to do it because it wouldn’t work. My stepdad kept insisting that we try pliers. I got in the car, and pulled the switch back to let up the window. He yanked on the window and the glass shattered. So we called someone to replace the window and motor, and now they’re saying they want me to pay it. I said it wasn’t my fault the window broke, so I shouldn’t have to pay for it (at least not all of it). Who’s responsible?
Asked on November 24, 2010 under Bankruptcy Law, Georgia
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
You might want to check with your insurance company to see if the broken window would be covered under comprehensive. If it is covered, you would only owe the deductible. Your stepfather should pay the deductible or in the event that the insurance won't cover the broken window, your stepfather should pay for the cost of repairs. The person who repaired the window is probably asking you to pay because you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
If your stepfather won't pay for the repairs or the deductible if insurance coverage is applicable, you could sue him in Small Claims Court. Your damages (the amount you are seeking to recover) would be the cost of repairs and court costs. Court costs would include the court filing fee and process server fee. You must be at least 18 to file a lawsuit.
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