Who has to bear the costs for the damages to the car in case of an accident?
July 29, 2024 | 35,00 EUR | answered by Jenny König
Dear Lawyer,
I hope you can help me with my current problem. A few days ago, I was involved in a traffic accident in which my car suffered significant damage. The accident occurred when another vehicle suddenly changed lanes and hit me from the side. Fortunately, no one was injured in the accident, but my car is now heavily damaged.
Now the question arises for me of who is responsible for the costs of repairing my vehicle. I fear that the insurance of the at-fault driver may refuse to cover the damages, leaving me with the costs in the end. I am worried about how I will be able to afford the repair costs, as my car is essential to me and I urgently need it.
Can you please tell me who is liable for the damages to the car in such a case? Are there ways for me to enforce my rights as the victim if the at-fault driver's insurance refuses to pay? How can I ensure that I do not end up bearing the costs and that my car is repaired promptly?
I thank you in advance for your help and support with this legal issue.
Best regards,
Adele Kronberger
Dear Mrs. Kronberger,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the traffic accident you were involved in a few days ago. I am sorry to hear that your car has suffered significant damage, but fortunately no one was injured. I would be happy to assist you with your current problem and show you the possible steps and options.
In a case like yours, where another vehicle suddenly changed lanes and side-swiped your car, the party at fault is typically responsible for the costs of repairing your vehicle. This is especially true if the question of fault can be clearly determined and the other driver caused the accident through gross negligence or intentionally. In such a case, the liability insurance of the at-fault party would be responsible for the damages.
However, if the insurance of the at-fault party refuses to cover the damages or the question of fault is not clearly resolved, you should definitely consult a traffic lawyer. A lawyer can help you enforce your rights as the victim and, if necessary, file a lawsuit against the at-fault party's insurance.
To ensure that you are not left with the costs and that your car is repaired promptly, you should gather all relevant documents and evidence, such as photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and repair estimates. This information can help your lawyer evaluate the case and assert your claims.
It is important that you act quickly and contact a lawyer immediately to protect your interests and achieve a swift resolution of the damage claim. Therefore, do not hesitate to contact me so that we can find a solution to your legal problem together.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions.
Sincerely,
Jenny König
Traffic Lawyer
