Taking a car for a test drive is a common and important component of the car-buying process. It allows you to get a feel for what it would be like to own the vehicle, including how it handles on the road. However, accidents can happen anytime. What happens if you get in an accident during a test drive? What about the liability and insurance coverage? Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you navigate the potential complexities that may arise in the aftermath of a test drive accident.
What To Know Before Taking A Test Drive
Before you take a test drive it is important to understand that car dealerships are required to carry fleet insurance on all the vehicles on their lot, and the test driver is typically considered a covered individual in a test drive accident. However, it’s always best to check the specific details with the dealership, as the policies can vary.
In some cases, your auto insurance policy can transfer to the test drive vehicle, providing coverage for any accidents. Once again, you will have to check with your insurance provider whether you are covered for test drive accidents and the coverage limits.
Who Is Responsible for Test Drive Car Accidents?
Determining fault is a key component of any valid car accident claim. It helps establish who is responsible for paying for the damages caused by the accident. There could be a single or multiple parties liable for an accident.
The driver could be held responsible if their actions such as reckless driving or violation of traffic laws caused the accident. Other drivers can also be liable if they cause the accident. The dealership could be responsible if there were maintenance issues with the vehicle or there were unsafe driving conditions at the lot. In some cases, the vehicle manufacturer can be held liable if there is a manufacturing defect with the vehicle, resulting in the accident.
Whose Insurance Covers Car Accidents During Test Drives?
If you are involved in a test drive accident you want to know if the accident is covered by your insurance company. The answer depends on how the accident happened and the policy details. Some dealerships require individuals who want to test drive vehicles to have their own insurance policy that can provide coverage. Generally, the dealership insurance acts as the primary coverage, while your auto insurance acts as the secondary coverage, but this can vary depending on the policy.
There could also be a combination of both insurance policies, where the dealership provides insurance coverage for the damage to the vehicle, while your insurance covers liability injuries. The situation can get significantly more complex if you and the dealership have no insurance or not enough coverage for the damages. This is why it is important to clarify the insurance status of the dealership before taking a test drive.
Generally, drivers are new to the vehicles they test drive and may not be as comfortable on the road. They can also be more anxious while driving a new car. This can result in a higher risk of being involved in an accident. You must ensure your financial exposure in a test drive accident is minimized through proper insurance coverage.
Steps to Take After a Test Drive Accident
If you get involved in a test drive accident, your first step should be to get medical assistance for any injuries. If you need emergency medical attention, you may be rushed to a hospital. If you remain at the scene, you should move to a safe location and call your insurance company to notify them about the accident.
Also, document the scene of the accident by taking photos of the damage to the vehicle, the road condition, or anything that could be relevant to your case. Such evidence can play a crucial role in insurance claims and lawsuits. Try to stay calm through the process and do not confront the dealership staff. While it may be upsetting for you and for them to have a car crash during a test drive, being hostile will not help.
Additionally, when communicating with the insurance company, avoid admitting fault. Although the insurance company provides coverage for your accident, they will likely attempt to minimize their liability.
Get Legal Guidance from an Attorney
Even if the dealership insurance or your auto insurance provides coverage for the test drive accident, you could still face challenges in the form of fault disputes, legal liability, injury claims, coverage limits, and other complexities. To help you navigate the complexities, you should seek legal guidance and representation from an experienced auto accident attorney.
Consulting an attorney can also help you protect your rights as they can provide valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of insurance claims and ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
