Letting someone else drive your car in Texas creates a web of legal and financial consequences that many vehicle owners don’t discover until after an accident happens. Texas follows specific rules when a non-owner is behind the wheel. Whether you are the owner whose car was borrowed or the driver who crashed someone else’s vehicle, understanding Texas law on this issue is critical to protecting your interests. Make sure to speak with an experienced accident lawyer in McAllen for legal guidance.
How Insurance Coverage Works When Others Drive Your Car
When you hand over your keys, you are also handing over significant financial responsibility. In Texas, insurance typically follows the car, not the driver. This means if your friend or family member causes an accident while driving your vehicle, your insurance becomes the primary coverage for any damages, regardless of whether the other driver has their own policy.
Your policy covers damages up to your chosen limits. If you have $50,000 in property damage coverage, that is what’s available to pay for the accident. When damages exceed your limits, the driver’s personal insurance may provide secondary coverage. But if both policies fall short, you could be personally responsible for the difference.
The situation becomes more serious if you knowingly lent your car to someone who shouldn’t be driving. This is known as negligent entrustment, or when you allow an incompetent, reckless, or unlicensed person to use your vehicle. If you knew or should have known the driver was unfit, you may face personal liability for any resulting damages.
What to Do When a Friend or Family Member Crashes Your Car
If someone else crashed your car, make sure the accident gets reported to the police immediately and that all details are documented. Then contact your insurance provider right away—they need to know someone else was driving, and they will explain your next steps.
To protect yourself going forward, take these practical steps:
- Verify the driver has a valid license and check their driving record before lending your car again.
- Set clear boundaries about where and how they can use your vehicle.
- Consider adding regular drivers to your policy for extra coverage.
- Cooperate fully with any investigations from your insurer or law enforcement.
- Consult with a McAllen injury attorney if there are questions about negligent entrustment or substantial damages.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After Someone Else’s Crash
Insurance companies can get aggressive after someone else crashes your car. You may face premium increases, coverage disputes, or pressure to accept settlements that don’t fully address your losses.
An experienced attorney protects your interests by:
- Handling all communications with insurance companies so you don’t make statements that could hurt your case
- Reviewing your policy thoroughly to identify all available coverage options
- Investigating the accident to establish fault and gather supporting evidence
- Negotiating with multiple insurers when both your policy and the driver’s policy are involved
- Advising you on your next steps if negligent entrustment claims arise
Did Someone Crash Your Car? Get Legal Help Right Away
When someone else crashes your car, the legal and financial fallout can be more complicated than you expect. A Texas car accident attorney can help you navigate insurance disputes, protect your rights, and pursue compensation from all responsible parties. Your lawyer will also review your policy, investigate the accident, and develop a strategy to minimize your liability while maximizing your recovery. Contact a Texas car accident attorney today to discuss your case and get the guidance you need to move forward.
