If Someone Borrows a Car, Are They Liable for Accidents They Cause?
When a person causes an automobile accident while driving a motor vehicle which they do not own, it can be unclear who bears legal responsibility for the crash. This is because, in these situations, the driver and owner may both be liable for some portion of the injuries or damages they cause. If a person injured in an accident is considering legal action, they should recognize this possibility before filing a lawsuit against only one party or the other.
If you have sustained an injury in a crash caused by another driver, you may be able to pursue financial compensation. To discuss what options may be available to you, contact the New Jersey injury lawyers of Levinson Axelrod, P.A., at 800-346-5529 today.
Responsibility for Drivers and Owners
Borrowing a car is common in some households. A family may share vehicles between parents, children, and other relatives. Also, some companies will let their employees drive company cars if they need to. However, the owner of these cars can be held responsible for injuries in some situations.
The owner may be expected to prevent the following individuals from getting behind the wheel:
- Drivers too ill to drive
- Drivers with physical or psychological disorders that make driving unsafe
- Elderly drivers no longer fit to be on the road
- Underage drivers
- Drivers using a learning permit who are left without a supervisor
- Drivers who are known to be reckless
For companies allowing employees to drive the company car, the employer may automatically assume some portion of fault for the accident.
Contact Us
If you have sustained an injury because of another motorist’s mistakes, you may want to consult with an attorney to learn more about your legal rights. Contact the New Jersey injury attorneys of Levinson Axelrod, P.A., by calling 800-346-5529.

