What Happens If You Test Drive A Car And Crash?

Going to the dealership and test-driving a vehicle is an exciting day! But, what happens if you are involved in a car crash while test driving?

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 888-848-5084 or contact us online.

Whose Insurance Will Pay?

All drivers involved in a test drive car accident will want to know whose insurance will pay for the damages caused by the accident. The answer to this question will depend on how the accident occurred and the types of car insurance involved. 

Car Dealerships

Car dealerships must carry fleet insurance on the vehicles on their lot, and the test driver will usually be considered a covered driver under their policy. Therefore, if you are the driver, it is likely that the fleet policy will cover at least part of the damages. In addition, the dealership’s insurance will typically cover damages resulting from the accident, no matter who was at fault. If the car crash was a minor crash, the dealership will likely absorb the costs and submit the insurance claim. On the other hand, if the crash was not minor and the other driver is at fault, the dealership will likely try to pursue a third-party claim under the driver’s liability insurance or seek other means of reimbursement. 

Your Insurance

Your car insurance may also be responsible for the charges of an accident. If you are deemed to have caused the accident, then your car insurance will likely kick in and pay for your losses up to the limit on your policy. 

If you crash while in a dealership car, your insurance views it similarly to when you drive a rental car. This means that the coverage you have in place for your own vehicle will likely be the same coverage you have in place when driving a test drive. 

The Other Driver

If it is deemed that the other driver involved in the accident is at fault, then the car dealership won’t be able to hold you liable for the damage. Instead, they will likely look to the other driver’s insurance to pay for accident-related claims. 

If the other driver doesn’t have car insurance or is not insured properly, the car dealership will use its own fleet insurance to recover damages. In these cases, you will likely have to pay for your own medical treatment through your health insurance. 

Liability Waivers

Many car dealerships will try to get around having to take responsibility for any accidents that may occur during a test drive by having the test driver sign a liability waiver. The purpose of these waivers is to transfer any legal responsibility for damages caused to the test driver. It is important not to sign a waiver if you do not fully understand the terms and conditions of the test drive. 

California Car Accident Attorney

If you are involved in a car crash while test driving a vehicle, there are numerous things you must do and additional steps. We understand that this can be an overwhelming process. We are here to help you through the steps. If you or a loved one has been impacted and involved in a car crash, call Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates at 888-848-5084 or contact us online.