There are many reasons that New Mexico drivers might be driving a car that doesn’t belong to them. Normally cars get borrowed and swapped back and forth without incident all the time, but accidents bring in a lot more questions.
Who’s liable when driving a borrowed car?
This depends on several different variables, including who’s at fault for the accident and the type of auto accident that occurs. Most of the time though, the person who owns the car is liable for any accidents or repairs.
If it’s the driver’s fault, the person who was driving the car might have to take some responsibility. For example, if you get a DWI while driving someone else’s car, that will probably go on your driving record too.
The accident will still impact the car owner’s driving record and insurance rates, depending on the severity of the accident. You also shouldn’t be held responsible to fix anything that’s damaged on the car.
Who’s responsible for car repairs?
If there is damage done to the borrowed car while a person is driving it, then it’s normally the legal and financial responsibility of the car owner to fix the damages. However, depending on who’s fault the accident was, it might be nice to help the car owner pay for damages.
For example, if you get into an accident and you’re dubbed to be the driver at-fault, then you might be asked to help pay for some of the car repairs. However, if you’re not at fault, then there’s no legal or financial obligation for you to help the car owner pay for the repairs.
How can I avoid debating liability?
It can suck when accidents happen while borrowing a car and cause major rifts between friends. It’s important that the car owner knows their insurance policy thoroughly before letting anyone else drive their car.
