If my husband is an alcoholic and goes out and is involved in an accident while drunk, am I liable for anything?

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If my husband is an alcoholic and goes out and is involved in an accident while drunk, am I liable for anything?

I am trying to figure out the correct thing to do. My husband’s drinking is out of control. If he leaves our home drunk and has an accident or gets a DUI am I held responsible in any way? What will happen?

Asked on January 31, 2011 under Accident Law, Arizona

Answers:

S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 13 years ago | Contributor

If you are the registered owner of the vehicle your husband is driving, you will be liable for an auto accident he causes.  The police report will list you as the registered owner.

If the vehicle is insured, the policy would probably not cover DUI because that is a criminal offense.

If a lawsuit is filed against your husband and the opposing party prevails, the opposing party could satisfy the judgment by recovering assets from you and your husband.

You might also be liable for negligent entrustment for allowing your husband to drive when he is intoxicated.

You might want to contact AA, which may be able to intervene and prevent a tragedy. 


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