A crash can feel even more complicated when you were driving a borrowed car. You may wonder whether the vehicle owner’s insurance applies to you, whether your own policy matters and what happens if another driver caused the collision. If you suffered injuries, dealing with those questions can add another layer of stress while you focus on recovering.
Here are the steps to take as you deal with the aftermath.
Get the other driver’s insurance information
Collect the other driver’s insurance and contact information at the scene if you can. You should also get a copy of the crash report and preserve photos or other evidence from the scene. These details can help identify the driver responsible for the collision and the insurance coverage that may apply to your claim.
Notify the owner and review the vehicle’s insurance
Tell the vehicle owner about the crash and ask for a copy of their insurance information. Arizona law generally requires an owner’s liability policy to cover someone who uses the vehicle with the owner’s express or implied permission, subject to the policy’s terms and limits. This coverage can matter when you legally use the borrowed vehicle and another driver causes the collision.
Check your own auto insurance
Your own policy could provide additional protection even though you do not own the car involved in the crash. The coverage available to you depends on your policy and the circumstances, so review your policy rather than assuming that borrowing another vehicle leaves you without coverage.
Document your injuries and financial losses
Even while dealing with the stress of the accident, you should not neglect your own health. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries. You should also keep documentation that shows how the crash affected you, including:
- Medical records and bills
- Records of missed work or lost income
- Receipts for accident-related expenses
Prompt medical care can also create a record of your injuries and their connection to the collision.
Protect your claim before accepting a settlement
Do not assume that the first insurance company to contact you has offered the only available source of compensation. When multiple policies come into play, reviewing the coverage and your losses before accepting a settlement can help you understand what the offer actually addresses.
If you remain unsure about which policy applies or whether a settlement covers your losses, consider reviewing the insurance information, medical records and settlement documents with an attorney. Legal assistance can help you understand your options before you make a decision that could affect your claim.