Most car accidents are caused by the person operating the vehicle. Generally, one driver or another is responsible for an accident, but there are times when someone who was not driving or even in the vehicle is held responsible.
Below are some situations where this can occur:
- Kids driving your car. In several states, parents are held responsible for their kids’ reckless driving when their child is using one of the family vehicles. Other states hold parents responsible when they allow a child they knew was irresponsible and a danger on the road to drive. Still other states laws hold the parent responsible if they have signed the driver’s license application of a minor.
- Careful who you let drive your vehicle! According to NOLO.com: “In some states, car owners are legally responsible for negligent driving by anyone using the owner’s car with the owner’s permission. These state laws do not require that the parties have a relationship like that of employer-employee. Instead, in states with such laws, once you give someone permission to drive your car, you’re on the hook for their actions.”
- Employer responsible for employee. The law holds employers responsible for their employees’ reckless driving if they’re involved in an accident while they are doing work for their employer.
If you have been involved in an auto accident that was not your fault and you believe someone other than a driver was responsible, you should speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer.