Does Car Insurance Cover Car Accidents on Private Property?

Car insurance generally covers vehicle accidents on private and public property. Whether you’re in a parking lot, ramp garage, or on someone’s driveway, if there’s a collision, you should be covered.

What Insurance Coverage Covers Accidents on Private Property?

Vehicle insurance pays for covered risks up to the policy limit and is subject to exclusions, including if you make a mistake and cause an accident on private property. If another driver is at fault and collides with you, their insurance carrier should reimburse you for damage and any injuries you suffered.

Collision coverage is for physical damage to your vehicle. Liability insurance covers you for claims made by others who accuse you of causing an accident. This is true no matter where the crash takes place.

Texas Insurance Coverage Requirements

Texas law requires you to have at least $30,000 of coverage for injuries per person, up to $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 of coverage for property damage.

That should be enough if you cause a fender-bender with minor or no injuries. If the accident is more severe, the costs will quickly add up. You should purchase as much coverage you can budget so you’ll have as much protection as possible.

What kind or how much insurance you have shouldn’t impact your recovery from a negligent property owner. It’s what kind and how much coverage they have that matters.

What Should I Do if I’m Involved in an Accident on Private Property?

If the accident is on a public roadway, call the police. An officer should investigate the accident and create a report. If the officer finds legal violations, they may issue a ticket or arrest one or both of you. That report is usually the starting point of our, and the insurance company’s, investigation of your claim.

Unless there are injuries, the police may not respond if you call when the accident is on private property. There’s no police investigation, ticket, or arrest to help determine fault without their involvement.

Proving Negligence to Support Your Claim

Car accident cases are based on negligence, a legal theory that puts liability on drivers or parties who weren’t acting reasonably and made mistakes that caused accidents and injuries. That can mean a driver was distracted, intoxicated, or not taking care to watch where they were going when they struck you.

What to Do After an Accident on Private Property

To develop evidence for your potential claim, photograph or video the scene, including damage to your vehicle and any injuries you suffered; if you’re injured, get medical attention and document your bills and doctor’s reports. You should also exchange identification and insurance information with the other driver. Get the contact information of any witnesses. Tell the property owner of the accident and get their contact information as well.

Photos or videos are crucial if the property’s owner or manager may be responsible for the accident. If your car slid because of icy pavement or water that didn’t drain or the parking lot is unlit, liability could go beyond the other driver.

How Can an Attorney Help Me with a Vehicle Accident on Private Property?

One of the most essential things The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers will do is investigate your case. Parking lots and ramp garages are often covered by security cameras. It’s become more common for homeowners to have cameras cover their property, too.

Depending on the circumstances, we may access these videos to strengthen your case. These videos may be deleted after a short time, so we need to get involved as soon as possible.

We know Texas car accident and personal injury law. Our attorneys are also experienced with negotiating settlements with insurance companies and, when needed, taking cases to trial. Facing an insurance company represented by a team of lawyers by yourself is a losing proposition.

In a Car Crash on Private Property? Contact The Law Giant for Help

Any car crash can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. After receiving medical attention, contact The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers right away. We will handle your case while you focus on recovery.

With our skilled legal representation by your side, you may be able to secure full and fair compensation for your damages. Contact us at 866-723-6414 to schedule a free case evaluation at our Brownsville, McAllen, or San Antonio offices.