What Happens If You Crash A Dealership Car?

Taking a car for a test drive is one of the most exhilarating feelings for many people. It is the first taste of what your new vehicle may feel like. But, what happens if, during that test drive, you get into an accident with another driver? Who’s insurance covers it? Are you held responsible? Multiple questions may come to mind about the next steps once you are involved in a car accident while test-driving a dealership car.

If you need help navigating the time after your accident in a dealership vehicle, you will need to hire an attorney to ensure your case is taken seriously. Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates can help you do just that. Call us at 949-727-9300 or contact us online.

Who Is At Fault?

Just like any car accident, one of the first questions that will need to be answered is who is at fault for the accident. Who caused the crash? Fault matters in a car accident because the person at fault for the accident is usually responsible for accident-related costs. If you are determined to be at fault because you were negligent and caused the crash, you will likely have to pay damages to the other party. For example, if you ran a stop sign while driving a dealership car and rear-ended another vehicle, you will likely be liable for the accident.

If the other driver is at fault, they will likely be the party that pays for the costs of the accident. Determining the driver’s fault is an important first step to figuring out the next steps of the accident.

But What If I Didn’t Feel Comfortable In The Vehicle?

Many people will try to argue that they didn’t feel comfortable in the vehicle before they started driving because they are not used to the new vehicle or its features. But, in the eyes of the law, this does not matter. As a driver, you are expected to become familiar with the vehicle’s features before you take the vehicle on the road. There are no different or special laws when it comes to drivers who crash during a test drive. 

What Steps Should I Take?

After any car accident, many people feel frustrated and wonder what they should do. But, especially after a car crash in a test drive vehicle, you need to take the same steps as you would with any other car accident. 

You will want to make sure you get the names and information of any other drivers and people in the involved vehicles, the contact information of any witnesses, photos of the entire scene and the vehicles, and finally, you will want to report the accident to both the police and your car insurance company. 

If there are any injuries in the crash, make sure that the very first step you take is to ensure everyone has the proper medical attention. Even if you think you do not have a big injury but feel a small one, you will want to make sure that you seek medical attention. If the doctor checks you out and determines you are not injured, the report may still come in handy throughout any resulting litigation.  

Contact California Car Accident Attorney Samer Habbas

If you are involved in a car accident while test-driving a vehicle, there are numerous things that you must do and additional steps you must take. We understand that this can be an overwhelming process. However, we are here for you to help you through the process. If you or a loved one has been impacted and involved in a car accident, call Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates at 949-727-9300 today or contact us online.