Miami, FL asked in Car Accidents and Insurance Defense for Indiana

Q: Is the owner of an insured vehicle involved in an accident in Indiana, which he loaned to a friend, liable for damages

I was driving in Indiana. I am an out-of-state resident. There was a red light, and the car in front of me (Car 1) stopped. I stopped (Car 2). Moments later a third driver (Car 3) rear-ended me, and my car was pushed into the car in front. All three cars are damaged (mine in rear and front - about $4,000). Third driver admitted 100% fault and police report says so. Owner of Car 3 lives in Michigan and he loaned his car to a friend, who caused the accident. Owner's insurance says they are not responsible, told me to contact my own insurance company. Question: Is the out-of-state owner of a vehicle involved in an accident in Michigan liable for damages or is it only the driver to whom he loaned his car? (ps - seems like no personal injury - just property damage for all parties.)

1 Lawyer Answer

A: The simple answer is YES, generally through his or her insurance.

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