What to do if I lended my car to someone and they were in an accident?
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What to do if I lended my car to someone and they were in an accident?
I paid my insurance payment late so now my insurance won’t cover damages. the other insurance company is now wanting me to pay damages and says I will lose my license if I don’t. I don’t know what to do? Am I responsible for all damages or do I have any options?
Asked on July 10, 2013 under Accident Law, Wisconsin
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
As the registered owner of the vehicle, you are liable for the property damage and personal injury claims of the party who was not at fault in the accident.
You can sue the driver of your car for negligence to recover the amount of damages for which you are liable.
If you can't afford to pay the damages, you might want to consider filing bankruptcy. Depending on your income, you may be eligible to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy which is straight liquidation which eliminates certain types of debts. If you are not eligible for Chapter 7, you can file Chapter 13; however, Chapter 13 requires a plan (budget) for repayment of creditors.
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