Damage Caused by Stolen Cars: Who Is Liable

In recent years, car theft has become a significant issue in the United States, with over a million vehicles reported stolen annually. California alone accounts for more than 200,000 of these thefts each year. This surge in stolen vehicles raises essential questions about liability and responsibility when accidents occur. Who is accountable for the damage caused by a stolen car?

If a stolen car incident has injured you or caused property damage, Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers is ready to help you secure the financial compensation you deserve. Fill out a free case evaluation form today and our team of lawyers will ensure you’re covered for your losses.

Who Pays for Damage Caused by a Stolen Car?

In most cases of car theft that causes injuries or property damage, the thief is liable to pay for costs. If they have an insurance policy, the first route is to file a claim against the thief’s insurance. Of course, car thieves are often uninsured or woefully underinsured. In this case, you may need to look to your own insurance policy for help covering the costs.

Possible coverage for the damage caused by a stolen car can come from the thief’s insurance, suing for personal injury, your uninsured/underinsured driver insurance, and—for the unfortunate car owner—your collision or comprehensive insurance.

Stolen car incidents can be challenging to navigate. If you have been injured in a car accident with a stolen vehicle, it can be helpful to contact an attorney to ensure you get the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, property damage, and other related expenses.

What If a Stolen Car Hits and Runs?

Hit-and-run accidents are common when a stolen car is involved because the driver does not want to get caught. This can make seeking compensation for injuries and damages more challenging, but you do have options.

• If the thief is eventually caught, you can move forward with the standard procedure of seeking an insurance claim and/or suing them for compensation. Thieves are more likely to be caught when stealing modern cars due to the increased presence of security and tracking features.
• If the thief is not caught, you can still seek compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and talk to your lawyer about other possible routes for compensation.

The most important thing after a hit-and-run is your safety. Always prioritize getting to safety, receiving medical attention, and filing a police report immediately. This is especially important as some injuries like whiplash or internal organ damage are not always immediately apparent after the accident, and you may need medical support without realizing it.

Gathering Evidence After an Accident or Damage Caused by a Stolen Car

Gathering evidence is paramount if you have been in an accident involving a stolen vehicle, especially a hit-and-run. Many sources of evidence beyond the physical presence of the stolen car can help identify the vehicle, the driver, and the details of what caused your injuries.

• Photos and video: Record the scene of the accident and any physical damage right after the event.
• Witnesses and Passengers: Get contact info and witness statements from anyone who was part of the accident or saw it happen.
• License Plate Number: If possible, get the stolen car’s license plate number. Even a partial number can help.
• Dash Cam Footage: Many cars today have dashcams that may have caught some or part of the accident.
• Security Cam Footage: Your lawyer may be able to attain security footage from local stores and traffic lights.

In addition to gathering evidence, it is imperative to file a complete police report on the incident. This can help to document your case and help the police find the stolen car and thief. And before you call your insurance, you may want to contact an experienced attorney first.

Will Insurance Cover Accidents Caused by Stolen Cars?

There are several ways you may be able to seek an insurance settlement if you are injured or involved in an accident with a stolen car. It depends on the situation, the damage you have suffered, and your insurance policy.

• The Thief’s Insurance – If possible, you can make a claim against the car thief’s insurance.
• Suing the Thief for Personal Injury – If the thief owns significant personal assets, it may be possible to sue them directly for personal injury and property damage compensation.
• Uninsured / Underinsured Driver Insurance – If the thief doesn’t have insurance (or not enough insurance), you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured driver’s insurance policy.
• Collision and Comprehensive Insurance – For the car owner: If you have collision or comprehensive insurance, you may be able to get coverage for damage to your car and personal property.

How Much Is a Stolen Car Accident Settlement Worth?

If a stolen car injures you in an accident, several factors can significantly affect the value of your settlement. Understanding these elements can help you gauge the potential compensation you may receive. Key considerations include:

• Extent of Your Injuries: The severity of your injuries plays a crucial role in determining the settlement amount. More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation.
• Current and Future Medical Bills: Your settlement includes all medical expenses stemming from the accident, encompassing ongoing treatments and rehabilitation costs.
• Lost Income or Earning Capacity: If the accident affects your ability to work, you may qualify for compensation covering lost wages and potential future earnings.
• Temporary or Permanent Disability: If your injuries lead to a temporary or permanent disability, this can significantly affect the settlement amount.
• Property Damage: Compensation may also include costs for repairing or replacing any damaged property such as totaled cars resulting from the accident.
• Fault and Liability: Determining who is at fault in the accident can influence the settlement. If the other party is deemed liable, your compensation can be increased.
• Insurance Coverage and Policies: The amount available under the at-fault party’s insurance policy can also affect the final settlement.
• Pain and Suffering: This includes non-economic damages related to the physical and emotional impact of the accident.

Collaborate with an experienced accident attorney to identify which factors are most relevant to your case and to better understand the potential range of compensation you could receive. 

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you suffer injuries in an accident involving a stolen car, navigating the legal complexities can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to face this challenge alone. The skilled legal team at Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers is ready to guide you through this difficult time. To schedule your initial consultation, please use our online form or call our office at (800) 718-4658.

Stolen car accidents present unique complexities, especially when determining liability. Our dedicated attorneys are committed to helping you understand your rights and options. We will work diligently to pursue the compensation you need for your recovery. Don’t hesitate—reach out to us today to start on the path to justice and support.

Jeffrey Nadrich

Jeffrey Nadrich is a nationally-recognized California plaintiff’s personal injury attorney. He is a graduate of UC Berkeley and UC Hastings College of the Law. He has successfully represented thousands of injury clients over the last 40 years.