As a leading personal injury firm in Brownsville, Texas, we understand accidents happen for various reasons. And when they occur between friends, it can become very awkward.

For instance, people ask us, “If I crash my friend’s car, whose insurance pays?” We have more than one answer. It could be your insurance company. But sometimes it could also mean their insurance company too. It comes down to the various factors that took place in your situation.

Generally, the driver’s insurance comes first, followed by the car-owner’s insurance. But it can get complicated. For instance, did the accident just result in car damage? Was it only a few dents and scratches to your friend’s car? Then your insurance carrier might be the one to pay for those repairs. 

What about if you or any passengers were injured? Did someone experience whiplash, or did the airbags activate? In cases where medical attention is required, it could include several insurance carriers. Your friend might have medical insurance, and they can combine it with yours. But of course, it all depends on the type of insurance you and your friend carry. And, if it’s an injury accident that hits the coverage limit on the driver’s insurance, then your own insurance may kick in. It really depends.

One of the most important things to clarify is whether your friend actually agreed to allow you to drive their car. The legal term is “permissive use.” If this has been confirmed, then the owner’s auto insurance is expected to pay for any automobile damages. But this can be tricky, too. 

Let an experienced attorney handle the insurance claim while you focus on your relationship

Many Brownsville residents’ biggest worry after crashing a buddy’s car is the relationship. Can they overcome the tussle over who pays for what? Will they be able to recover their friendship while they deal with car damage and any personal injuries? After all Brownsville is a friendly community, and we try to support each other “like family.”

Dealing with the insurance company without legal representation can strain all those involved. Moreover, the insurance adjustors don’t care about “saving a friendship.” All they are concerned about is managing their company’s bottom line. Frustration can mount when all parties involved feel like they were mistreated. 

It can be difficult if the relationship matters to you; here are a few strategies for mending a friendship;

• Allow some space while staying in touch. Everyone might need a little breathing space but don’t go silent. Send a little text or email to remind your friend that they are still important to you.
• When it’s time to talk, listen, and be kind, your friend may want to express their general feelings and frustrations. That’s normal. Let them vent a little if you know it’s not a personal attack. 
• You can tell them you’re sorry without admitting fault for the accident. “I’m sorry you are going through this” or “I’m sorry you feel that way” are fair things to say without taking responsibility for a car accident. A lawyer’s job is to help review all the evidence and work with the insurance adjuster. 
• Meet in the middle. Find some common ground to agree on and discuss how you plan to handle things in the future. 

We are not assuming that anyone allowed to drive a friend’s car was responsible for an accident. They could be sideswiped by another driver or rear-ended by a delivery truck. Each situation is different. What we can be sure of is to ask our legal team which practice areas we can help with, “If I crash my friend’s car, whose insurance pays?” Let us manage the insurance arguments while you focus on your relationship.