Buying a car of your choice in San Diego seems like an exciting idea. However, there can be hidden dangers lurking. You go for a test drive and take the dream car for a spin. All of a sudden, a car pulls out in front of you. Even after slamming the brakes, the crash may take place.
Such test drive accidents happen more often than most people realize. In a city like San Diego, with bustling traffic, such mishaps are not rare. This can be problematic as you get into damage control. Determining the liability can be tough, as can be taking the logical step after the incident. A veteran car accident lawyer can be your savior in such situations.
The insurance loophole to think of
When you test drive a car, the ownership is with the dealership. So, by default, the dealership’s insurance offers the primary coverage for the damage. However, things may not be so simple always. Dealerships generally use “garage liability insurance.” This helps them cover crashes involving test drive situations, loaner vehicles, etc.
In some cases, you may find that the dealership’s insurance does not offer full coverage. Think of a situation when you crash into the back of a vehicle during a test drive. The other driver has medical bills and property damage. The dealership’s policy covers a part of it, but not all. Then your own insurance may get into the picture. In such times, you have to look for veteran and trusted car accidents attorneys San Diego.
Who was driving the car?
This is a crucial aspect here. Some dealerships don’t let customers drive first. So, a salesperson takes the wheel initially to show off the car’s features. If the accident happens while the dealership employee is driving, the liability will not be on you.
Waivers and documents signed before the test drive
At some dealerships, you need to sign paperwork for all damages during the test drive. However, these documents can complicate your case. If the Insurance companies and dealerships use these signed waivers as proof that you accepted responsibility, a lawyer can step in. Using their expertise and legal knowledge, they can read between the fine print.
What happens if you’re injured?
Injuries during test drives are not treated much differently from other car accident injuries. However, sometimes the claim processing may be delayed and complicated. There can be several insurers involved: your, the other party, and the dealership’s. The pure comparative negligence law can be tricky, and only expert lawyers can decide the liability in such overlapping cases.
What to do after a test drive accident?
Do not panic after such a mishap and inform the police. Try to document everything and get contact details. Do not sign anything more at the dealership without reading it carefully. Contact a seasoned car accident attorney as fast as you can. Check out hhjtrialattorneys.com if you do not have time for comparison, etc.
Test drive accidents are legally complicated, and the liability is not simple. Hire a lawyer with enough experience in this sector for the best results.
