If my son-in-law was in a small accident with my car, why am I being sued?
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If my son-in-law was in a small accident with my car, why am I being sued?
I loaned my SUV to my SIL to pick up some things at the store. He was involved in a small accident $941. I am being sued for 75,000 from the guy he hit. Is this possible since I was 30 miles away.
Asked on July 8, 2012 under Accident Law, Ohio
Answers:
Leigh Anne Timiney / Timiney Law Firm
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
As the owner of the vehicle, yes you can be sued. Anytime you loan your vehicle to someone you are still responsible and liable for any damage they may cause while using your vehicle. Your auto insurance should have taken care of this for you. Unless the person who your son in law hit was very seriously injured, $75,000 is an exreme amout of money for the other driver to try and recover from you for a less than $1000 accident. If you have not already contacted your insurance, you should. They can likely refer you to a lawyer to help you with this and your insurance company will likely cover the costs for you.
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