Test driving a vehicle is a routine part of the car-buying process, but what happens if something goes wrong? One moment, you are checking the turning radius or getting a feel for the brakes, and the next, you are involved in a car crash. Whether you hit another vehicle, damage property, or suffer injuries yourself, many legal and insurance questions come into play. At this stressful moment, you need to speak with a Denver car accident lawyer at Zara Injury Law to understand your rights and responsibilities.
Below, we break down what happens if you are involved in a test drive accident and who might be responsible for covering the damages.
Who is liable in a test drive accident?
Liability in a test drive accident depends on a variety of factors, including who was driving, how the accident occurred, and the type of insurance coverage available. In most cases, there are three potential sources of coverage:
- Your personal auto insurance: If you were test driving a vehicle and the accident was your fault, your own insurance company might be the first line of defense. However, not all policies extend coverage to vehicles you do not own. It often depends on the specifics of your policy and whether it covers you for driving non-owned vehicles.
- The dealership’s insurance: Most car dealerships carry fleet insurance that covers their entire inventory of vehicles, including those taken out for test drives. The dealership’s insurance often includes liability and property damage coverage. If you crash during a test and the dealership has sufficient coverage, their policy may pay for the damages.
- The other driver’s insurance: If someone else on the road caused your accident, their insurance should cover your damages, just like any other car crash. However, establishing fault and dealing with a third-party insurance company can be complex, especially when it involves a test drive accident.
In any test drive accident, liability will depend on who caused the crash and what insurance policies apply, including your own, the dealership’s, or another driver’s
What if you suffer a personal injury?
Car accidents during test drives are not always minor. If you sustain an injury during a test drive as the driver, a passenger, or a dealership employee, you may be entitled to compensation. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can all be considered in a personal injury claim.
In these situations, working with an experienced car accident attorney is essential. An experienced car accident lawyer can investigate the accident, evaluate your options, and help you navigate your claim.
Who pays for property damage?
If the accident causes property damage, like damage to another vehicle, a fence, or the dealership’s car, the responsible party must cover it. Coverage for vehicle damage will depend on which party’s insurance policy applies and whether those policy limits are sufficient. So, depending on the facts of the crash, one or more of the following parties might pay:
- Your own auto insurance
- The dealership’s insurance
- The other driver’s insurance
You should not assume you are financially responsible just because you were behind the wheel. The presence of fleet insurance or other policies might shift responsibility away from you.
Protecting yourself during a test drive
Before you take a car out for a spin, it is a good idea to ask the dealership a few questions:
- Does the vehicle have current insurance?
- What happens if there’s an accident?
- Will I need to sign a waiver?
In many cases, car dealerships will have you sign an agreement that outlines responsibilities in the event of a crash. Make sure you read it carefully and understand your potential liability.
What to do if you are in an accident during a test drive
If you are involved in a test drive accident, take the following steps:
- Call the police and file a report.
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
- Exchange information with all involved parties.
- Notify the dealership immediately.
- Contact our skilled personal injury lawyers to review your case.
Taking these steps after a test drive accident helps protect your health, preserve your legal rights, and strengthen your ability to recover compensation from the responsible party or insurance company.
Schedule a free consultation with Zara Injury Law today
Getting into a car crash while test-driving a vehicle can cause confusion and stress. You are probably wondering who will pay, whether you are at fault, and how the accident will affect your insurance. Every situation is unique, and liability is not always clear-cut. Our knowledgeable Denver car accident lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of insurance and protect your legal rights.
If you have been hurt or experienced property damage in a test drive accident, do not try to handle the claim on your own. Contact Zara Injury Law online or at (866) 823-8288 to schedule a free consultation. Our law firm has experience handling car accidents during test drives and can be your advocate.